Textile Fragment
Unknown Artist
4th–5th century
Medium
Wool, linen; plain weave, tapestry weave
Dimensions
Max. H. 4 3/4 in. (12 cm) Max. W. 3 15/16 in. (10 cm)
Classification
Textiles
Department
Islamic Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of George F. Baker, 1890
Accession Number
90.5.496
Art Historical Context
This delicate *Textile Fragment* from the 4th–5th century offers a glimpse into the sophisticated textile traditions of the ancient Near East, now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Department of Islamic Art. Crafted from wool and linen using plain weave for the foundation and tapestry weave for decorative elements, this small piece—measuring just 4 3/4 by 3 15/16 inches—survives as a testament to everyday artistry in a pre-Islamic era. Donated in 1890 by George F. Baker, it reflects the Met's early commitment to collecting artifacts that bridge Late Antique and emerging Islamic cultur...