Textile sample

Art Historical Context

This exquisite silk textile sample, produced around 1900 by the French firm J. Claude Frères & Co. with an unknown designer, captures the elegance of turn-of-the-century textile artistry. Measuring a modest 10 5/8 × 9 7/8 inches, it woven silk craftsmanship from Lyon, France's historic silk-weaving hub. Acquired through the Rogers Fund in 1908 and now housed in the Metropolitan Museum Art's Modern and Contemporary department, this piece reflects the era's booming luxury fabric trade. The floral motifs, a hallmark tag for this work, showcase intricate Jacquard weaving techniques, where looms created complex patterns with precision. Silk's lustrous sheen and durability made it ideal for high-end fashion, upholstery, and decorative arts during the Belle Époque, blending artistry with industrial innovation. Such samples were vital tools for manufacturers, allowing designers and clients to preview patterns before full production. Today, this textile invites us to appreciate the unsung beauty of everyday luxury materials, bridging fine art and design in the Met's vast collection. A delicate window into 1900s opulence!

About the Artist

J. Claude Frères & Co.|Unknown Designer ( | ) · | – |

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