Border fragment
Unknown Artist
16th century
Medium
Macrame
Dimensions
L. 4 1/8 x W. 2 1/4 inches 10.5 x 5.7 cm
Classification
Textiles-Laces
Culture
Italian
Department
European Sculpture and Decorative Arts
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
The Nuttall Collection, Gift of Mrs. Magdalena Nuttall, 1908
Accession Number
08.180.602
Art Historical Context
This exquisite *Border fragment*, crafted in 16th-century Italy, offers a glimpse into the Renaissance of intricate textile decoration. Measuring just 4 1/8 x 2 1/4 inches (10.5 x 5.7 cm), this piece exemplifies macramé—a knotted cord technique that flourished in Europe during this era. Likely intended as an edging for garments, linens, or ecclesiastical vestments, its fine linen threads are meticulously twisted and looped into geometric patterns, showcasing the patience and skill of anonymous Italian artisans. Macramé, derived from Arabic seafaring traditions and popularized in Italy by the ...