Textile Fragment with Vine Lattice and Birds

Unknown

6th–9th century · Silk; samit · Islamic Art

This two-toned silk fragment features circular and lobed medallions composed of pairs of birds. These medallions are framed within an overall lattice pattern composed of abstracted vines, scrolls, and leaves. Numerous examples of silks such as this have been found in the cemetery at Panopolis (Akhmim) in Egypt. Large sheets of the textile were cut and applied to unadorned tunics, allowing local elites to ornament their clothing with eye-catching patterns and colors.

Artist

Unknown

Date

6th–9th century

Medium

Silk; samit

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Charles Stewart Smith Memorial Fund, 1915