Textile Fragments

Unknown

15th–16th century · Silk; samite · Islamic Art

This silk textile composed of fifteen fragments, including two in a private collection, depicts three forms of the vyala, a mythological creature whose leonine body is combined with parts of other animals. This form had its origins in traditional Indian art, where it was used in architectural settings as a symbolic guard for Hindu temples. Here, all three vyalas are winged, and the central form has the head of an elephant.

Artist

Unknown

Date

15th–16th century

Medium

Silk; samite

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Gift of Michael and Jacqueline Franses, 1993