Textile Fragment
Unknown Artist
5th–6th century
Medium
Wool, linen; tapestry weave
Dimensions
Max. H. 16 5/8 in. (42.3 cm) Max. W. 9 7/16 in. (24 cm)
Classification
Textiles
Department
Islamic Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of George F. Baker, 1890
Accession Number
90.5.718
Art Historical Context
This exquisite *Textile Fragment* from the 5th–6th century offers a rare glimpse into the sophisticated textile arts of the late ancient world. Crafted in wool and linen using weave—a labor-intensive technique where colored wefts are woven perpendicular to the warp to create intricate patterns—this fragment exemplifies the technical mastery of early weavers in the Eastern Mediterranean or Near East. Measuring just 16⅝ by 9⅞ inches, it survives as a testament to everyday luxury, likely adorning garments, furnishings, or ceremonial objects. Classified within the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Isl...