Fragment
Nasrid dynasty (1230–1492), late 15th century
Medium
Silk; lampas technique
Dimensions
60.8 × 30.5 cm (23 7/8 × 12 in.)
Classification
textile
Department
Textiles
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
189600
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
Highly sought after in Islamic Spain, silk textiles such as this one are remarkable for their wide variety of designs and vivid color combinations. The design of this fragment is vibrant and sophisticated, setting an intricate geometric pattern against a lustrous satin-weave ground. The pattern joins white trilobed arches with a repeat design of green hop blossoms, stylized vegetal motifs, and yellow scrolling ornaments that recall the lush interior settings of the Alhambra, an extensive royal c...
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...