Textile Fragment

Unknown

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

Ottoman lampas and velvet textiles often feature large-scale designs displayed within the ogival framework. This example incorporates an elongated tulip flanked by two wavy lines and divided by saz style serrated leaves centering tiny blossoms. Delicate carnations and tulips wind their way along vines inside the ogival lattice. Though slightly worn, the gold surface features metal-wrapped thread emphasized by the bright red background, a color combination popular at the Ottoman court. Based on the shape of the fragment, this lampas-woven silk (kemha) was probably once used as part of a garment.

Artist

Unknown

Date

16th century

Medium

Silk, metal wrapped thread; lampas (kemha)

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Purchase, Joseph Pulitzer Bequest, 1952