Cover
Unknown Artist
early 19th century
Medium
Linen, silk, metal wrapped thread; plain weave, embroidered
Dimensions
H. 38 in. (96.5 cm) W. 17 in. (43.2 cm)
Classification
Textiles-Embroidered
Department
Islamic Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Anonymous Gift, 1879
Accession Number
79.1.286
Art Historical Context
This exquisite embroidered cover, dating to the early 19 century, hails from the rich tradition of Islamic textiles and exemplifies the artistry of anonymous craftsmen in the Islamic world. Crafted from linen plain weave and adorned with silk and metal-wrapped threads, it measures an impressive 38 inches high by 17 inches wide—ideal for use as a ceremonial shroud, cushion cover, or protective cloth. Acquired through an anonymous gift in 1879, it now graces the Metropolitan Museum of Art Department of Islamic Art, offering a tangible link to everyday luxury and spiritual life. The use of plain...