Textiles
Textiles paint a picture of the lives of Islamic people through the dynasties. They reveal information about the culture, religion, and routines of the people. Studying textiles allow us to dive deeper into the diversity of thought, practice, and abilities of those that used them. The repetition of patterns, fabrics, colors, and designs within various Islamic textiles emphasize the theme of leisure throughout the centuries.
The Safavid Velvet with Figural Imagery depicts a scene of the princely pastime of falconry while showing off the bold burgundy color and immense detail possible through the mastery of their weavers. The details such as the taj Haidari turban make dating this piece to the mid 16th century possible.
The Green and Red Woven Tapestry Fragment tells a story of leisure with its associations to the gardens of Paradise. Through its elaborate rosettes and floral medallions, those who view it are provoked to reflect on the beauty of God through His creations. This fragment was initially used as a furnishing fabric or as part of a woven carpet, though it was likely reinterpreted and used for diverse purposes in following periods.
The Reliquary of Saint Anastasius Textile possess medallions that contain vegetal ornaments that transform into pieces of jewelry. The piece is assumed to be Umayyad in origin due to the numerous qualities that harken back to the Umayyad Caliphate. Although not fully known, the textile was most likely used as a piece of an Umayyad caliph’s leisure outfit.
The Silk Robe Fragment shows elements of Sassanian silk traditions along with common Islamic silk components, such as the geomentric grid with beasts and vegetation shown. This piece most likely comes from early Abbasid Iran in the 7th or 8th century CE, shortly after the fall of the Sassanian Empire.
These pieces show the beauty and rich culture of the Islamic textiles which held an important place in society, culture, and leisurely life.
Safavid Velvet with Figural Imagery
Green and Red Woven Tapestry Fragment
Reliquary of Saint Anastasius Textile