Textile Fragment
Unknown Artist
6th–7th century
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
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,...