Cushion Cover (Yastik)

Unknown

17th century · Silk, cotton, metal wrapped thread; cut and voided velvet, brocaded · Islamic Art

Velvet cushion covers with their bold patterning and limited color range are familiar textiles in museum collections. This velvet example, richly brocaded with metal thread, features a central medallion surrounded by carnations, tulips, and serrated leaves. The ends contain rows of lappets characteristic of many cushion covers, which decorated divans placed around the reception area of aristocratic households or in garden retreats or pavilions.

Artist

Unknown

Date

17th century

Medium

Silk, cotton, metal wrapped thread; cut and voided velvet, brocaded

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Theodore M. Davis Collection, Bequest of Theodore M. Davis, 1915