Textile Fragment

Unknown

15th–16th century · Cotton, plain weave; painted and/or printed, mordant and resist dyed · Islamic Art

This object is one of a larger group of textile fragments made in Gujarat, India, but found in Fustat, Egypt (known as Old Cairo.) Dated to either the fifteenth or sixteenth century, it is decorated with patterns which echo the ornamental motifs found in painted Jain manuscripts made during this time. These features can be seen in the fragment’s repeated checkered patterning on the top and bottom borders, which are filled with crosses and divided into smaller squares with floral medallions. The use of blue for coloring the floral design of the fragment serve as evidence of the use and popularity of indigo dyes in Gujarati textile production during this time. This textile fragment ultimately sheds light on maritime Indian Ocean trade and the growing market for these textiles within the context of Egypt.

Artist

Unknown

Date

15th–16th century

Medium

Cotton, plain weave; painted and/or printed, mordant and resist dyed

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Purchase, V. Everit Macy Gift, 1930