Panel c. late 16th century

This panel was likely created in Turkey using cotton, and it's a striking example of textile design. The floral motifs are block-printed onto the fabric, creating a repeating pattern of stylized blooms. Notice how the materiality of the cotton affects the printed design. The absorbency of the fabric causes the dyes to bleed slightly, softening the edges of the floral shapes, and adding a tactile depth to the surface. Block printing is a labor-intensive process, requiring skilled artisans to carve the designs into wooden blocks, carefully apply dye, and then precisely imprint the pattern onto the fabric. This process is often associated with specific cultural traditions and regional styles, carrying with it a rich history of craftsmanship. Considering the amount of work involved in its creation, the panel invites us to contemplate the social context of its production and to reflect on the skilled labor that imbues this everyday object with cultural and aesthetic significance. It reminds us that materials, making, and context are essential to understanding the full meaning of any artwork.