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Textile Fragment Depicting a Male Figure under an Arch

11th–12th century

Not on view

Although the Arabic script in the arch over the central figure is illegible, its presence marks the space within the arch with its hanging lamp as a holy one, as does the pose of the seated man. The orant pose, with hands upraised in prayer was long used in Christian and Jewish art communities and came to be used in an Islamic context.

Textile Fragment Depicting a Male Figure under an Arch, Tapestry weave in polychrome silk and undyed linen on plain weave ground of undyed linen — Due to rights restrictions, this image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

Title: Textile Fragment Depicting a Male Figure under an Arch

Date: 11th–12th century

Geography: Made in Egypt

Medium: Tapestry weave in polychrome silk and undyed linen on plain weave ground of undyed linen

Dimensions: 9 3/4 x 6 3/16 in. (24.8 x 15.7 cm)

Classification: Textiles

Credit Line: Benaki Museum, Athens (15040)

Accession Number: isl1600

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Medieval Art and The Cloisters at The Met

The Museum's collection of medieval and Byzantine art is among the most comprehensive in the world, encompassing the art of the Mediterranean and Europe from the fall of Rome to the beginning of the Renaissance.