Enthroned King Flanked by Griffins

prior to 1971

Iran or Iraq, in the style of the Abbasid period

(750–1258)

Medium

Silk: lampas weave

Measurements

Overall: 46 x 78.7 cm (18 1/8 x 31 in.)

Credit Line

Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund 1971.24

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Location

Not on view

Description

This textile fragment preserves one complete and portions of 5 aligned roundels arranged in two rows (the top row fragmentary). Each roundel depicts an enthroned king flanked by crescents from his crown and griffins at his knees. Each king's robe and throne are ornamented with geometric patterns. Filling areas over the shoulders and at the feet of the king are stylized floral motifs outlined with pearls. The border is ornamented with stylized floral scroll. Interspaces contain an eight-pointed medallion.

According to recent analysis of the museum’s Buyid and Abbasid textile materials, some have been identified as modern reproductions.