Fragment of Shoulder Band

Art Historical Context

This delicate fragment of a shoulder band, dating to the 5th–6th century, offers a glimpse into the textile artistry of the early Islamic world, likely from regions like Egypt or the Near East where late antique traditions flourished. As part of a garment—possibly a tunic—the narrow band would have adorned the shoulder seam, showcasing the wearer's status through intricate decoration. Housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Department of Islamic Art, this piece was generously gifted by George F. Baker in 1890, preserving a tangible link to daily life in a transformative era bridging Byzanti...