Fragment of a Sleeve
Unknown Artist
5th–6th century
Medium
Wool, linen; plain weave, tapestry weave
Dimensions
Max. H. 6 11/16 in. (17 cm) Max. W. 5 1/8 in. (13 cm)
Classification
Textiles
Department
Islamic Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of George F. Baker, 1890
Accession Number
90.5.294
Art Historical Context
This delicate *Fragment of a Sleeve*, dating to the 5th–6th century, offers a rare glimpse into the everyday textiles of the early Islamic world. Crafted from wool and linen using plain weave for the foundation and tapestry weave for decorative patterns, this small piece—measuring just 6 11/16 by 5 1/8 inches—was likely part of a garment worn in the bustling trade hubs of the Near East or Egypt. Donated to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in 1890 by F. Baker, it resides in the Islamic Art, highlighting the museum's commitment to preserving fragile fabrics from antiquity. The dual weaving techni...