Fragment with an Interlace Medallion

Unknown

3rd–6th century · Wool, linen; plain weave, tapestry weave · Islamic Art

An angular interlaced band forms a grid within the circle. Each square is filled with nested diamond patterns; a leaf with three dots fills each corner. The openwork and fringe suggest that this fragment may be from a shawl, a rectangular piece of fabric worn by men, women, and children. Complete examples in museum collections and the painted shrouds of mummies from the late Roman period show that interlace was a favorite decorative element for shawls.

Artist

Unknown

Date

3rd–6th century

Medium

Wool, linen; plain weave, tapestry weave

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Purchase by subscription, 1889