Textile Fragment
Unknown Artist
3rd–4th century
Medium
Wool, linen; plain weave, tapestry weave
Dimensions
Max. H. 11 7/16 in. (29 cm) Max. W. 6 11/16 in. (17 cm)
Classification
Textiles
Department
Islamic Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Purchase by subscription, 1889
Accession Number
89.18.204
Art Historical Context
This delicate textile fragment, dating to the 3rd–4th century, offers a glimpse into the sophisticated weaving traditions of the ancient Near East or Egypt. Crafted from wool and linen plain weave for the sturdy ground fabric and tapestry weave for decorative elements, it exemplifies early techniques that allowed artisans to create vibrant, durable patterns. At just 11 7/16 inches high and 6 11/16 inches wide, such fragments are precious survivors, preserved through careful museum acquisition like the Metropolitan Museum of Art's 1889 by subscription. Housed in the Met's Islamic Art departmen...