Textile Fragment
Unknown Artist
3rd–4th century
Medium
Wool, linen; plain weave, tapestry weave
Dimensions
H. 13 11/16 in. (34.7 cm) W. 6 1/8 in. (15.5 cm)
Classification
Textiles
Department
Islamic Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Purchase by subscription, 1889
Accession Number
89.18.26
Art Historical Context
This delicate textile fragment, dating to the 3rd–4th century, offers a tantalizing glimpse into the artistry of Late Antique weaving from the Near East or eastern Mediterranean. Crafted from wool and linen using plain weave for the sturdy ground fabric and tapestry weave for decorative elements, it measures just 13 11/16 by 6 1/8 inches—small enough to have adorned a garment, cushion, or curtain in daily life. Acquired by the Metropolitan Museum of Art through subscription purchase in 1889 it resides in the Islamic Art department, highlighting the enduring legacy of pre-Islamic textile tradit...