Untitled

Unknown

13th–early 14th century · Silk and metallic thread lampas · Asian Art

Few silks better represent the imagination and vitality of Central Asian textiles of the Mongol period than this piece, with its angry birds and strange, incomplete winged beasts against an airy floral background. Other Central Asian textiles of this type survive in European church treasuries and show dynamic interactions among the various imaginary creatures of their patterns. Such designs had a strong effect on fourteenth- to fifteenth-century Italian silks, which are known for their energy and humor.

Artist

Unknown

Date

13th–early 14th century

Medium

Silk and metallic thread lampas

Culture

Central Asia

Department

Asian Art

Credit line

Gift of Mrs. Howard J. Sachs, in memory of Arthur Upham Pope, 1973