Piece
Unknown Artist
16th century
Medium
Silk
Dimensions
L. 15 x W. 22 1/4 inches (38.1 x 56.5 cm)
Classification
Textiles-Woven
Culture
Spanish
Department
European Sculpture and Decorative Arts
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of The United Piece Dye Works, 1936
Accession Number
36.90.1
Tags
Art Historical Context
This exquisite 16th-century silk textile fragment, originating from Spain, offers a glimpse into the opulent world of Renaissance decorative arts. Woven during a period when Spain's textile industry flourished under Habsburg influence, this piece measures 15 by 22¼ inches and exemplifies the mastery of silk weaving techniques prevalent in centers like Valencia and Toledo. Likely part of a larger panel or garment, its luxurious medium—fine silk threads interlaced on a loom—highlights the era's advanced looms and dyers, producing vibrant, durable fabrics for nobility and clergy. The design burs...