Piece
Unknown Artist
17th century or earlier
Medium
Silk
Dimensions
Overall (a): 12 1/4 x 2 1/4 in. (31.1 x 5.7 cm) Overall (b): 12 3/4 x 2 1/4 in. (32.4 x 5.7 cm) Overall (c): 10 1/4 x 2 1/4 in. (26 x 5.7 cm)
Classification
Textiles-Woven
Culture
China
Department
Asian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Anonymous Gift, 1946
Accession Number
46.133.72a–c
Art Historical Context
This delicate set of three woven silk textile fragments from China, dating to 17th century or, exemplifies the refined artistry of traditional Asian weaving. Ranging from 10¼ to 12¾ inches in length and uniformly 2¼ inches wide these narrow strips (cataloged as a, b, c) likely originated as borders, straps, or components of larger garments, banners, or furnishings. Their preservation highlights the durability of silk, a material prized for its luster and versatility. Silk production and weaving reached extraordinary heights in ancient China, techniques developed over millennia along the Silk ...