Band
Unknown Artist
10th–11th century
Medium
Linen and silk
Dimensions
H. 3 3/4 in. (9.5 cm) W. 9 1/2 in. (24.1 cm)
Classification
Textiles-Woven
Department
Islamic Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Fletcher Fund, 1946
Accession Number
46.156.9
Art Historical Context
This exquisite woven band, crafted from linen and silk in the th–11th century offers a glimpse into the refined artistry of the Islamic world. Measuring just 3¾ inches high and 9½ inches, its narrow form suggests it was likely used as a decorative trim for garments, furnishings, or ceremonial textiles—a common feature in Abbasid or regional Islamic production centers like Egypt or Iraq. The Fletcher Fund acquisition in 1946 brought this delicate piece to the Metropolitan Museum Art's Department of Islamic Art, where it stands as a testament to medieval textile mastery. The use of silk alongsi...