Textile Fragment

Unknown Artist

6th–7th century

Textile Fragment by Unknown Artist

Medium

Wool, linen; tapestry weave

Dimensions

Max. H. 7 1/2 in. (19 cm) Max. W. 36 1/4 in. (92 cm)

Classification

Textiles

Department

Islamic Art

Museum

Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY

Credit

Gift of George F. Baker, 1890

Accession Number

90.5.812

Tags

Human FiguresHorses

Art Historical Context

This exquisite textile fragment, dating to the 6th–7th century, offers a rare glimpse into the vibrant world of early Islamic art. Woven in wool and linen using the technique—where discontinuous wefts create colorful, detailed patterns—this narrow strip (max. 7½ in. high by 36¼ in. wide) likely originated in the Near East or Egypt Tapestry weave was prized for its durability and ability to produce intricate scenes, making such textiles ideal for garments, furnishings, or ceremonial hangings. The fragment features lively depictions of horses and human figures, motifs that evoke hunting scenes,...

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