Fragment of a Tunic
Unknown Artist
5th century
Medium
Wool, linen; plain weave, tapestry weave
Dimensions
Max. H. 6 11/16 in. (17 cm) Max. W. 5 5/16 in. (13.5 cm)
Classification
Textiles
Department
Islamic Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of George F. Baker, 1890
Accession Number
90.5.188
Art Historical Context
This delicate fragment of a tunic, to the 5th century, offers a rare glimpse into the everyday artistry of ancient textile makers. Crafted from wool and linen using plain weave for the sturdy base and tapestry weave vibrant patterns, it measures just 6 11/16 by 5 5/16 inches—small enough to fit in your hand, yet rich with historical resonance. Housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Islamic Art department as a gift from George F. Baker in 1890, it exemplifies the fragility and endurance of ancient fabrics. Tapestry weave, a technique where colored weft threads are woven directly into the f...