Fragment of a Mat Fan or Fly Whisk with Quadrupeds
Returned to lender
This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.Animals generally appear on secular works in the Islamic era. These textile fragments picture animals displayed in profile against sharply contrasting backgrounds. The stylized, geometricized forms of the animals and plants are framed by bands of linear and geometric ornament. Animals like these were often combined with inscriptions.
This fragmentary weaving, crafted from strips of date palm, is probably from a fan or a fly whisk. Two lions accompanied by smaller creatures resembling dogs drink from a footed vessel.
This fragmentary weaving, crafted from strips of date palm, is probably from a fan or a fly whisk. Two lions accompanied by smaller creatures resembling dogs drink from a footed vessel.
Artwork Details
- Title: Fragment of a Mat Fan or Fly Whisk with Quadrupeds
- Date: 10th century
- Geography: Made in Probably Egypt
- Medium: Strips of date palm, woven
- Dimensions: 3 3/4 x 10 1/4 in. (9.5 x 26 cm)
- Classification: Textiles
- Credit Line: Benaki Museum, Athens (14744)
- Curatorial Department: Medieval Art and The Cloisters