Textile Fragment
Unknown Artist
4th century
Medium
Wool, linen; plain weave, tapestry weave
Dimensions
H. 4 5/16 in. (11 cm) W. 4 5/16 in. (11 cm)
Classification
Textiles-Tapestries
Department
Islamic Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Purchase by subscription, 1889
Accession Number
89.18.231
Art Historical Context
This delicate *Textile Fragment* from the th century offers a glimpse into the sophisticated weaving traditions of the early Islamic world. Crafted from wool and linen using plain weave for the foundation and tapestry weave for colorful accents, this small square—measuring just 4 5/16 inches (11 cm) on each side—survives as a testament to ancient textile artistry. Acquired by the Metropolitan Museum of Art through a subscription purchase in 1889, it resides in the museum's Islamic Art department, the enduring allure of these fragile artifacts. The combination of techniques here is particularl...