Fragment
13th/14th century
Medium
Silk, linen, and gilt-animal-substrate-wrapped linen, weft-faced three-color complementary weft twill weave with inner warps
Dimensions
14.5 × 24.5 cm (5 3/4 × 9 5/8 in.); Weft repeat: H.: 12.4 cm (4 7/8 in.)
Classification
textile
Department
Textiles
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
95424
Art Historical Context
This exquisite textile fragment, dating to the 13th or 14th century, a glimpse into the opulent world of medieval weaving. Crafted from silk, linen, and-animal-substrate-w linen threads, it measures a modest 14.5 × 24.5 cm, yet its intricate design speaks volumes about the era's luxury craftsmanship. Housed in the Art Institute of Chicago's Department, this survivor from centuries past likely originated as part of a larger garment, hanging, or ceremonial object, showcasing the high value placed on such materials. The standout feature is its sophisticated weft-faced three-color complementary w...
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...