Textile fragment, second half of 16th century; Ottoman
Turkey, Bursa or Istanbul
Silk and metal thread; a compound weave (satin and twill)
Technical Glossary
Turkey, Bursa or Istanbul
Silk and metal thread; a compound weave (satin and twill)
48 x 26 1/2 in. (121.9 x 67.3 cm)
Purchase, Joseph Pulitzer Bequest, 1952 (52.20.21)
Ottoman textiles illustrate the taste of the period for splendid floral silks, used for garments and furnishings. This vertical pattern, formed by wavy stems, flowers, and leaves, appeared during the second half of the sixteenth century and is stylistically comparable to the ceramic wall tiles in buildings of the period. Swinging in rhythm from right to left on the undulating stalk are composite tulips and peonies, alternating within the curve of the stems. The flowers and leaves are further enhanced with miniature tulips and carnations, both favorite Ottoman motifs, and other naturalistic flowers.
