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Textile Fragments

15th–16th century
Not on view
This silk textile composed of fifteen fragments, including two in a private collection, depicts three forms of the vyala, a mythological creature whose leonine body is combined with parts of other animals. This form had its origins in traditional Indian art, where it was used in architectural settings as a symbolic guard for Hindu temples. Here, all three vyalas are winged, and the central form has the head of an elephant.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Textile Fragments
  • Date: 15th–16th century
  • Geography: Attributed to India
  • Medium: Silk; samite
  • Dimensions: Largest Fragment: L. 11 9/16 in. (29.3 cm)
    W. 7 in. (17.8 cm)
  • Classification: Textiles-Woven
  • Credit Line: Gift of Michael and Jacqueline Franses, 1993
  • Object Number: 1993.2a–m
  • Curatorial Department: Islamic Art

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The Emperor's Carpet
second half 16th century
'Lotto' Carpet, Wool (warp, weft and pile); symmetrically knotted pile
'Lotto' Carpet
16th century
Textile Fragment, Silk, metal wrapped thread; lampas (kemha)
Textile Fragment
mid-16th century
Fragment of a Kaftan Back, Silk, metal wrapped thread; taqueté (seraser)
Fragment of a Kaftan Back
mid-16th century

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