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Textile Fragment

14th–15th century
Not on view
Geometric compositions predominate silk textiles of Nasrid Spain (1232–1492) and the contemporaneous Marinid Dynasty (1269–1465) of North Africa; they are often based on intricate patterns that repeat into infinity. The design of this fragment is centered on rows of eight-pointed stars where each compartment is filled with motifs reminiscent of fleurs-de-lis. While the stars are identical, outlined in red, the color of the fill alternates from blue to yellow. Inscriptions also play a central role here, be they the cartouches formed by interlaces bearing "Eternal Glory," or the two horizontal bands with abstract kufic writing that repeat the word "happiness" in mirror image. A variety of smaller motifs, from the narrow bands of reciprocal blue and white stepped crenellation to palmettes and arabesques, complete this assemblage that echos architectural decoration.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Textile Fragment
  • Date: 14th–15th century
  • Geography: Attributed to Spain or North Africa
  • Medium: Silk; lampas
  • Dimensions: Textile:
    H. 29 3/4 in. (75.6 cm)
    W. 45 3/8 in. (115.3 cm)
    Mount:
    H. 45 7/8 in. (116.5 cm)
    W. 50 5/16 in. (127.8 cm)
    D. 7/8 in. (2.2 cm)
  • Classification: Textiles-Woven
  • Credit Line: Fletcher Fund, 1946
  • Object Number: 46.156.16
  • Curatorial Department: Islamic Art

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