Pillow

Art Historical Context

This delicate linen pillow, crafted by an unknown Alanic artist around the 7th–9th century CE, offers a rare glimpse into the daily lives of the Alans, a nomadic people of Iranian descent who roamed the North Caucasus region. Measuring 21 x 2.38 x 9.64 inches, it exemplifies the practical artistry of ancient textiles, blending functionality with cultural expression. Housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Department of Ancient Near Eastern Art classified among Textiles-Costumes, was generously gifted by Jacqueline Simcox in 1999. The Alans, known for their warrior traditions and interactions with Byzantine and Islamic worlds, relied on portable textiles like this pillow for comfort during long migrations. Linen, a durable and breathable medium prized in the ancient Near East, highlights advanced weaving techniques suited to a mobile lifestyle. Such artifacts underscore the Alans' role as cultural bridges between steppe nomads and settled civilizations. Though simple in form, this pillow preserves the tactile legacy of Alanic craftsmanship, inviting us to imagine weary travelers resting their heads on its cool surface under vast Caucasian skies. A testament to everyday ingenuity, it enriches our understanding of early medieval life in the region.