Pearls of Wisdom: The Arts of Islam at the University of Michigan

Several bands of embroidered inscriptions form a decorative corner pattern on this Mamluk textile fragment. The dark blue thread stitched into a tabby or plain weave ground that is undyed is typical of Mamluk embroideries. While embroidery was an independent art form at this time, some embroideries are stitched so that they resemble more complicated and thus more expensive woven patterned fabrics. In addition to this media mimicry, many Mamluk designs were not bound by a particular medium. For example, similarly stylized floral elements are found across the media, including wood- and metalwork.

Bibliography: Ellis 2001; Walker 2000, 186 and 189; Lamm 1937; Falk 1985, 211–213; Blair 1998, 164–181; and Ettinghausen 1974.