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Fragment of a Shawl

9th–10th century

Not on view

Tiraz (pl. Turuz) are textiles usually inscribed with the name of the ruler, the state workshop in which they were woven, and the date they were produced. During the early Islamic period, they were often presented as honorific gifts. Similar works inscribed in Greek, Coptic, and Arabic were also made in private workshops.
The inscription is a Christian prayer in a Fayyumi-Sahidic dialect of Coptic, "Oh Lord, Jesus Christ! Help Father Toter. Amen! So be it! Oh Lord! This mercy on me, I shall not want. Amen." The crosses in the design confirm that the owner was Christian.

Fragment of a Shawl, Plain weave in polychrome wool with embroidered inscription in dark blue wool and a row of floral designs in dark blue and purplish wool; fringe along one edge — This image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

Title: Fragment of a Shawl

Date: 9th–10th century

Geography: Made in Egypt, the Fayyum, probably Tutun

Medium: Plain weave in polychrome wool with embroidered inscription in dark blue wool and a row of floral designs in dark blue and purplish wool; fringe along one edge

Dimensions: 16 1/8 x 28 1/8 in. (41 x 71.5 cm)

Classification: Textiles

Credit Line: Benaki Museum, Athens (15343)