Textile Fragment
Unknown Artist
5th–6th century
Medium
Wool, linen; plain weave, tapestry weave
Dimensions
Max. H. 2 1/4 in. (5.7 cm) Max. W. 6 in. (15.2 cm)
Classification
Textiles
Department
Islamic Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Purchase by subscription, 1889
Accession Number
89.18.154
Art Historical Context
This delicate textile fragment, dating to the 5th–6th centuries, offers a glimpse into the sophisticated weaving traditions of the early medieval Near East. Crafted from wool and linen using plain weave for the foundation and tapestry weave for decorative elements, it exemplifies the technical prowess of anonymous artisans from a region later associated with Islamic culture. Though small—measuring just 2¼ inches high by 6 inches wide—this fragment survives as a testament to everyday materials transformed into functional yet artistic objects, likely part of clothing, furnishings, or ceremonial ...