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Fragment from a Turban with a Tiraz Inscription

late 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.
Woven in luxurious yellow silk, the tiraz inscription in Arabic follows the standard format offering blessings to the Fatamid caliph al-‘Aziz (r. 975–96) and identifies where it was woven, "the private tiraz workshop of Tinnis," a town known for luxury goods. The date is now illegible.

Fragment from a Turban with a Tiraz Inscription, Plain weave in blue linen with inscription in golden yellow silk thread — Due to rights restrictions, this image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

Title: Fragment from a Turban with a Tiraz Inscription

Date: late 10th century

Geography: Made in Egypt, Tinnis

Medium: Plain weave in blue linen with inscription in golden yellow silk thread

Dimensions: 6 13/16 x 7 5/8 in. (17.3 x 19.3 cm)

Classification: Textiles

Credit Line: Benaki Museum, Athens (14997)

Accession Number: isl666

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Medieval Art and The Cloisters at The Met

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