Fragment of a Band with Musicians and Warriors
Unknown Artist
4th–6th century
Medium
Linen, wool; plain weave, tapestry weave
Dimensions
Max. H. 22 15/16 in. (58.3 cm) Max. W. 2 13/16 in. (7.2 cm)
Classification
Textiles
Department
Islamic Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of George F. Baker, 1890
Accession Number
90.5.822
Tags
Art Historical Context
This delicate fragment, titled *Fragment of a Band withicians and Warriors*, hails from the 4th–6th century and offers a rare glimpse into early textile artistry from the Islamic world. Measuring a slender 22 15/16 inches tall by just 2 13/16 inches wide, it formed part of a larger decorative band on clothing, furnishings, or ceremonial objects. Woven from linen and wool using plain weave for the ground and tapestry weave for the figural scenes, it showcases musicians—depicted as men playing flutes—alongside warriors, capturing moments of celebration, ritual, or martial life. Crafted by an un...