Textile Fragment
Unknown Artist
4th–5th century
Medium
Wool, linen; plain weave, tapestry weave
Dimensions
Max. H. 3 1/8 in. (8 cm) Max. W. 2 3/4 in. (7 cm)
Classification
Textiles
Department
Islamic Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of George F. Baker, 1890
Accession Number
90.5.384
Art Historical Context
This exquisite *Textile Fragment* from the 4th–5th invites us into the world of Late Antique weaving, a time of vibrant cultural exchange across the Near East and Mediterranean. Crafted by an unknown artist from wool and, it measures a modest 3 1/8 by 2 3/4 inches, yet survives as a rare testament to everyday artistry. Now in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Islamic department—thanks to a 1890 gift from George F. Baker—it exemplifies the textiles classified within this collection, bridging pre-Islamic traditions with later developments. The piece masterfully combines plain weave, a simple ove...