Fragment

Art Historical Context

This exquisite silk velvet fragment, hailing from 16th-century Italy, a tantalizing glimpse into the Renaissance era's opulent textile artistry. Measuring 16 x 7 5/8 inches (40.6 x 19.4 cm), it survives as a precious remnant, likely from a larger garment, ecclesiastical vestment, or luxurious furnishing. Displayed in the Metropolitan Museum Art's Department of European Sculpture and Decor Arts—thanks to a 2002 gift from Nan B. Kelekian in honor of Olga Raggio—it exemplifies the pinnacle of Italian weaving craftsmanship. In Renaissance Italy, cities like Venice, Florence, and Genoa were renown...