Man's Damir Coat with Short Sleeves

late 19th–early 20th century

Not on view

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 may have been considered to have protective significance for the wearer. This example is woven in narrow black and white stripes typical of examples worn by the Druze in the Hauran region from Bosra in southern Syria. Floral striped pattern bands on the wearer’s chest part vary the design of this example, while a standing collar of black cloth with luxurious trimmed braid in gold and red adds to this garment’s lavishness.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Title: Man's Damir Coat with Short Sleeves
Date: late 19th–early 20th century
Geography: Made in Syria, probably Damascus
Medium: Wool, silk, and metal wrapped thread; slit-tapestry weave
Dimensions: [no dimensions available]
Classification: Main dress-Menswear
Credit Line: Gift of Irene Lewisohn and Alice Lewisohn Crowley, 1939
Object Number: C.I.39.91.13
Curatorial Department: Islamic Art

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