Textile Fragment with a Leaf

Unknown

4th century · Wool, linen; plain weave, tapestry weave · Islamic Art

The tapestry leaf was woven simultaneously with the plain-weave linen ground, common practice during this period. More rarely, tapestry ornaments were woven separately, then sewn onto the ground, though this procedure became standard in the seventh century. Fine linear details--here, the ribs of the leaf--were added separately using the "flying shuttle" technique.

Artist

Unknown

Date

4th century

Medium

Wool, linen; plain weave, tapestry weave

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Purchase by subscription, 1889