Fragment
1601/35
Medium
Silk, broken reversed twill ground velvet weave; solid, cut and uncut velvet
Dimensions
22.4 × 24.4 cm (8 7/8 × 9 5/8 in.); Pattern repeat: H.: 9.5 cm (3 3/4 in.)
Classification
textile
Department
Textiles
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
61900
Art Historical Context
This exquisite silk velvet fragment, dating to around 1601–1635, offers a tantalizing glimpse into the opulent world of early 17th-century textile artistry. Woven in a sophisticated broken reversed twill ground with a mix of solid, cut, and uncut velvet pile, it measures a modest 22.4 × 24.4 cm, yet its repeating pattern (9.5 cm high) hints at grander designs meant for luxurious garments, upholstery, or ecclesiastical vestments. The interplay of cut and uncut creates shimmering depth and texture, catching light to mimic the richness of jewels or brocade—a hallmark of elite craftsmanship from t...
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...