Damask

Art Historical Context

This exquisite 14th-century silk damask, originating from Italy, exemplifies the artistry of medieval woven textiles. Measuring a compact 7 x 6½ inches (17.8 x 16.5 cm), it was acquired by the Metropolitan Museum of Art through the Rogers Fund in 1917 resides in the Medieval Art department. As a product of an unknown Italian artisan, it reflects the era's thriving silk trade, influenced by Eastern techniques via trade routes like the Silk Road with Italian cities such as Lucca renowned for their weaving prowess. Damask weaving creates reversible patterns through contrasting satin and sateen w...