Coat

Unknown

1930s · Wool, silk, metal wrapped thread; woven · Islamic Art

The "signature style" of Syrian weavers combined fine weaving with intricate motifs and embellishments. Elite Bedouin men were among the key patrons of textile workshops and tailors in Aleppo and Damascus and commissioned meticulously designed damirs (coats) such as this one for special occasions. The weaver created vibrant patterns using colorful silk and metal-wrapped thread that would have originally shone and sparkled. The motifs placed prominently on the upper back of these coats may have been considered to have protective significance for the wearer.

Artist

Unknown

Date

1930s

Medium

Wool, silk, metal wrapped thread; woven

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Gift of Dr. Marilyn Jenkins-Madina, in memory of her mother, Margaret Pyle Jenkins, 2008