Textile Fragment
Unknown Artist
4th–5th century
Medium
Wool, linen; tapestry weave
Dimensions
Max. H. 5 3/16 in. (13.2 cm) Max. W. 5 in. (12.7 cm)
Classification
Textiles
Department
Islamic Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of George F. Baker, 1890
Accession Number
90.5.624
Art Historical Context
This delicate textile fragment, dating to 4th–5th century, offers a rare glimpse into the weaving traditions of the early medieval Near East. Crafted from wool and linen in a weave—a labor-intensive technique where colored weft threads are woven discontinuously to form patterns directly in the fabric—this small piece (just over 5 inches square) survives as a testament to ancient craftsmanship. Such methods, requiring great skill, produced vibrant, durable textiles prized for clothing, furnishings, and trade across regions now associated with Islamic art. Housed in the Metropolitan Museum of A...