Man's Damir Coat with Short Sleeves

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 of these coats may have been considered to have protective significance for the wearer.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Man's Damir Coat with Short Sleeves
  • Date: early 20th century
  • Geography: Made in Syria, Aleppo or Damascus
  • Medium: Wool, silk, and metal wrapped thread; slit-tapestry weave; satin weave
  • Dimensions: Length at CB. 37 in. (94 cm)
  • Classification: Main dress-Menswear
  • Credit Line: Gift of Dr. Marilyn Jenkins-Madina, in memory of her mother, Margaret Pyle Jenkins, 2008
  • Object Number: 2008.274.6
  • Curatorial Department: Islamic Art

More Artwork

Research Resources

The Met provides unparalleled resources for research and welcomes an international community of students and scholars. The Met's Open Access API is where creators and researchers can connect to the The Met collection. Open Access data and public domain images are available for unrestricted commercial and noncommercial use without permission or fee.

To request images under copyright and other restrictions, please use this Image Request form.

Feedback

We continue to research and examine historical and cultural context for objects in The Met collection. If you have comments or questions about this object record, please complete and submit this form. The Museum looks forward to receiving your comments.