Fragment of a Sleeve
Unknown Artist
4th century
Medium
Wool, linen; plain weave, tapestry weave
Dimensions
Max. H. 11 5/8 in. (29.5 cm) Max. W. 8 1/16 in. (20.5 cm)
Classification
Textiles
Department
Islamic Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of George F. Baker, 1890
Accession Number
90.5.523
Art Historical Context
This delicate *Fragment of a Sleeve* the 4th century us into the everyday artistry of ancient textile makers. Fashioned from wool and linen, it measures just 11⅝ by 8¹⁄₁₆ inches, preserving a portion of what was once a functional garment sleeve. Housed in the Metropolitan Museum Art's Department of Islamic Art, it entered the collection as a gift George F. Baker in1890—a rare survivor that speaks to the fragility and value of ancient fabrics. The piece showcases two key weaving techniques: plain weave, a simple over-under interlacing for durable cloth ideal for clothing, and tapestry weave, w...