In the Fatimid period the minor arts reached new heights in terms of both quality and quantity. Highly skilled artisans and craftsmen produced sophisticated artefacts in an array of media to meet the specifications of a diverse clientele from both the royal court and the cities.
The most exquisite objects were reserved for the Fatimid court. Princes and courtiers vied to possess vessels carved from highly prized, imported rock-crystal. Glass was also popular, and Fatimid patronage enabled the industry in Fustat to apply the highest technological standards to blowing, moulding, cutting and embossing their wares.