Woman's Cape

late 19th–early 20th century

Not on view

The design of this cape is closely linked to the influence of "Orientalism" on the design of and demand for Syrian textiles. The term "orientalism" reflects Western travelers’ intense fascination with the Middle East during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Syrian textile producers created new products to satisfy the tastes of this new group of consumers. Although its shape resembles that of Moroccan and Algerian capes, the garment’s style and the use of a characteristically Syrian striped fabric alternating with bands of Arabic calligraphy suggest that it was made to appeal to foreigners visiting Syria. The calligraphy features the repeated phrase "There is no god but Allah."

Artwork Details

Title: Woman's Cape
Date: late 19th–early 20th century
Geography: Made in Syria, probably Aleppo or Damascus
Medium: Silk, cotton, wool, metal wrapped thread, metal, and paper; satin weave; plain weave; braided; felt
Dimensions: Length at CB: 56 in. (142.2 cm)
Classification: Outerwear-Womenswear
Credit Line: Purchase, Gifts in memory of Paul M. Ettesvold, and Judith and Gerson Leiber Fund, 1994
Object Number: 1994.302.2
Curatorial Department: Islamic Art

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