Textile Fragment

Unknown

15th–16th century · Cotton, plain weave; block-printed, mordant and resist dyed · Islamic Art

The bold designs on this textile fragment are block-printed. Dated to either the fifteenth or sixteenth century, the centers of the fragment’s embellishments are outlined in blue dye that are repeated twice. This alludes to the use and popularity of indigo dyes in Gujarati textile production during this period. Dotted lines extending from the floral motifs in the background form diamond shapes which echo the motifs found in Jain painted manuscripts. Made in Gujarat, India, but found in Fustat, Egypt, this piece speaks to how Gujarati block-printed, mordant, and resist-dyed fabrics became a global phenomenon and a popular commodity in regions engaged in Indian Ocean trade such as North Africa and South and Southeast Asia.

Artist

Unknown

Date

15th–16th century

Medium

Cotton, plain weave; block-printed, mordant and resist dyed

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Purchase, V. Everit Macy Gift, 1930