Textile Fragment
Unknown Artist
5th–7th century
Medium
Wool, linen; plain weave, tapestry weave
Dimensions
Max. H. 17 11/16 in. (45 cm) Max. W. 13 9/16 in. (34.5 cm)
Classification
Textiles
Department
Islamic Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Purchase by subscription, 1889
Accession Number
89.18.240
Art Historical Context
This exquisite Textile Fragment, dating to the 5–7th century, a glimpse into the sophisticated textile traditions of the early Islamic world, likely originating from Egypt or the Near East. Housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's of Islamic Art, this wool and linen piece measures about 17⅝ by 13½ inches and was acquired through a subscription purchase in 1889. Such fragments often survived in burials, wrapped around mummies or as grave goods, preserving vibrant colors and intricate designs despite the passage of centuries. Crafted using plain weave for the sturdy ground fabric and tapestry...