Textile with Large Chintamani Design

Unknown

16th century · Silk, metal wrapped thread; lampas (kemha) · Islamic Art

This textile features large chintamani motifs, each filled with delicate blue cloud bands. The chintamani design was one of the most popular in Ottoman Turkey and is seen across a wide range of media, including ceramics and textiles. The motif likely originated in China as a Buddhist emblem symbolizing the three pearls of wisdom—one of the attributes of bodhisattvas (Buddhist saints). In its Ottoman context, the motif was associated with good luck and power.

Artist

Unknown

Date

16th century

Medium

Silk, metal wrapped thread; lampas (kemha)

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Rogers Fund, 1908