Tunic Ornament Showing Christ and the Virgin Flanked by Angels?
Unknown Artist
7th–8th century
Medium
Wool, linen; plain weave, tapestry weave
Dimensions
Max. H. 5 3/4 in. (14.5 cm) Max. W. 12 1/4 in. (31 cm)
Classification
Textiles
Department
Islamic Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of George F. Baker, 1890
Accession Number
90.5.818
Tags
Art Historical Context
This delicate tunic ornament, dating to the 7th–8th century, showcases a central image of Christ and the Virgin Mary flanked by, rendered in wool and linen through a combination of plain weave and intricate weave. Measuring just 5¾ by 12¼ inches, this small yet vibrant textile fragment was likely designed as a decorative band or appliqué for elite garments, highlighting the advanced weaving techniques of the era. The tapestry weave allowed artisans to create detailed figurative scenes with rich colors and fine patterns, a hallmark of textiles from regions bridging late antiquity and early Isla...