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Fragmentary Loom Width with Ogival Pattern

ca. 1570–80
Not on view
With its unusual eggplant‑purple background, gold medallions, and crisp, stencil‑like drawing, this textile is an exceptionally fine example of the luxurious Ottoman silk fabrics referred to as kemha. Employing bold patterns, such as this ogival lattice design, these textiles were highly valued throughout the Mediterranean and beyond. Many datable fragments survive in the form of religious vestments of various Christian communities from Sweden to Moscow. Considering its overall shape, this fragment probably once served as part of a chasuble—a garment worn by Christian clergy.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Fragmentary Loom Width with Ogival Pattern
  • Date: ca. 1570–80
  • Geography: Attributed to Turkey, probably Istanbul
  • Medium: Silk, metal wrapped thread; lampas (kemha)
  • Dimensions: Textile: L. 75 in. (190.5 cm)
    W. 26 in. (66 cm)
    Mount: L. 56 3/8 in. (143.2 cm)
    W. 30 3/4 in. (78.1 cm)
    D. 1 in. (2.5 cm)
    Wt. 36 lbs. (16.3 kg)
  • Classification: Textiles-Woven
  • Credit Line: Anonymous Gift, 1949
  • Object Number: 49.32.79a–y
  • Curatorial Department: Islamic Art

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