Textile Fragment
Unknown Artist
5th century
Medium
Wool, linen; plain weave, tapestry weave, weft loop weave
Dimensions
H. 26 3/8 in. (67 cm) W. 18 7/8 in. (48 cm)
Classification
Textiles
Department
Islamic Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Purchase by subscription, 1889
Accession Number
89.18.146
Art Historical Context
This exquisite *Textile Fragment* from the 5th century offers a glimpse into the sophisticated world of Late Antique weaving, housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Islamic Art Department. Crafted wool and linen, it measures 26⅜ × 18⅞ inches (67 × 48 cm) and as a testament to anonymous artisans' skill. Acquired through a subscription purchase in 1889 it reflects the enduring value placed on such artifacts, bridging pre-Islamic craftsmanship with the cultural foundations of the Islamic world. The fragment showcases a masterful combination of techniques: plain weave for a sturdy base, tapes...