Green and Red Woven Tapestry Fragment
Woven Tapestry Fragment
Mid-8th Century CE
Wool; Tapestry Weave
The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, Rogers Fund, 1950 (50.83)
This colorful woven tapestry fragment is dated to the early Umayyad period under the caliphate of Marwan II. It may have been from Iran, Iraq, or Egypt due to its distinct S-spun weaving technique, floral pattern, and color palette. The fragment was likely used as part of a carpet or furnishing fabric in a home or mosque; both areas being where early Islamic people spent most of their leisurely time. However, some sources claim it could have ties to clothing such as robes or travelling bags. The fragment includes staggered rosettes and floral medallions emerging from a green background, giving the impression of a garden of Paradise. Those observing it are provoked to reflect upon its Sasanian-influenced design and draw connections to Islamic tradition and values.