Cover
17th century
Medium
Linen, plain weave; embroidered with silk floss in running stitches, pattern darning; main warp fringe
Dimensions
160 × 57.4 cm (63 × 22 5/8 in.); Irregular weft repeat: H.: 9.5 cm (3 3/4 in.)
Classification
textile
Department
Textiles
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
65220
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
Small, rectangular panels like this example are sometimes referred to as mirror covers, used to hang over mirrors as talismans to ward off the evil eye, a curse believed to be cast by a malevolent stare caused by jealousy or envy. They might also be used as covers for serving trays or for Qur'ans resting on reading stands. Embroidery represented domestic production that, at least until the early 18th century, imitated the more costly silks and velvets popular at the imperial court. Here, the emb...
About the Artist
Unknown
The artist designated as "Unknown" in our virtual museum's collection exemplifies a poignant chapter in art history: creators whose identities have faded into obscurity despite the enduring power of their work. With only one known artwork attributed to them in our holdings, this figure represents countless anonymous hands that shaped visual culture across centuries. Museums worldwide, including th...