Textile Fragment
Unknown Artist
3rd–4th century
Medium
Wool, linen; plain weave, tapestry weave
Dimensions
H. 17 in. (43.2 cm) W. 15 1/16 in. (38.2 cm)
Classification
Textiles
Department
Islamic Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Purchase by subscription, 1889
Accession Number
89.18.52
Art Historical Context
This exquisite *Textile Fragment* from the 3rd–4th offers a glimpse into the sophisticated textile arts of the ancient Near East or Egypt, now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Department of Islamic Art. Craft from wool and linen using a combination of plain weave for the foundation and tapestry weave for decorative elements, it measures 17 by 15 inches—a modest survivor of what was likely a larger garment, curtain, or furnishing. Acquired through a public subscription purchase in 1889, it reflects early collector enthusiasm for these fragile treasures. The use of tapestry weave, whe...