Textile Fragment
Unknown Artist
3rd–4th century
Medium
Wool, linen; plain weave, tapestry weave
Dimensions
H. 26 3/16 in. (66.5 cm) W. 1 7/16 in. (3.6 cm)
Classification
Textiles
Department
Islamic Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Purchase by subscription, 1889
Accession Number
89.18.343
Art Historical Context
This delicate *Textile Fragment*, dating to the 3–4th century, 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 decorative elements, it measures an elongated 26 3/16 inches high by just 1 7/16 inches wide—likely part of a larger garment band, curtain edging, or ritual cloth. Acquired by the Metropolitan Museum of Art subscription purchase in 1889 it resides in the museum's Islamic Art Department, highlighting the enduring legacy of pre-Islamic textile arts in regions that shap...