Fragment c. 15th century

This fragment was made by an anonymous artist, its date unknown, through weaving. The visual impact of this textile is deeply connected to its material and production. Notice the intricate patterns and the rich, earthy tones. These weren't simply painted on, but woven directly into the fabric through a painstaking process. The tight interweaving of threads creates a dense, tactile surface, imbued with texture, weight, and unique color. The process of weaving involves immense labor and skill. The artist would have used a loom, a frame that holds threads under tension, and interlaced with supplementary wefts with a shuttle. The creation of such complex patterns speaks to a highly skilled tradition of textile production. Understanding the intense labor and tradition involved in creating the "Fragment" allows us to appreciate it beyond its visual appeal. It challenges the traditional hierarchy between art and craft, reminding us that even fragments can hold profound cultural and social significance.