Velvet Panel with Rows of Flowers
Unknown Artist
mid-17th century
Medium
Silk, cut and voided velvet, with continuous floats of flat metal wrapped thread
Dimensions
Textile: H. 65 7/8 in. (167.4 cm) ) W. 29 15/16 in. (76 cm) Mount: H. 72 1/2 in. (184.2 cm) W. 34 3/4 in. (88.3 cm) D. 1 3/4 in. (4.4 cm)
Classification
Textiles-Woven
Department
Islamic Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
The Alice and Nasli Heeramaneck Collection, Gift of Alice Heeramaneck, 1991
Accession Number
1991.347.2
Tags
Art Historical Context
This exquisite *Velvet Panel with Rows Flowers*, created by an unknown artist in the-17th century, exemplifies the opulent textile arts of the Islamic world. Woven from silk using cut and voided velvet, the panel features rhythmic rows of blooming flowers and leaves, their vibrant forms enhanced by continuous floats of flat metal-wrapped that catch the light like shimmering gold. Measuring over five feet in height, it was likely designed for architectural decoration, such as wall hangings or furnishings in a grand palace or mosque. The sophisticated weaving methods highlight the mastery of Is...