Textile Fragment
Unknown Artist
4th century
Medium
Wool, linen; plain weave, tapestry weave
Dimensions
H. 13 3/8 in. (34 cm) W. 11 5/8 in. (29.5 cm)
Classification
Textiles
Department
Islamic Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Purchase by subscription, 1889
Accession Number
89.18.121
Art Historical Context
This exquisite textile fragment from the 4th century a glimpse into the sophisticated weaving traditions of Late Antiquity. Crafted from wool and linen using plain weave for the ground and tapestry weave for decorative elements, it measures just 13 3/8 11 5/8 inches, yet exemplifies the durability and artistry of early fabrics. Acquired by the Metropolitan Museum of Art subscription purchase in 188, it resides in the Department of Islamic Art, highlighting connections between pre-Islamic and later Islamic textile production in regions like Egypt or the Near East. The dual weaving techniques s...