Artwork Page for Vestment fragment with stars in staggered squares

Details / Information for Vestment fragment with stars in staggered squares

Vestment fragment with stars in staggered squares

1200s

Spain, probably Almeria

Medium
Silk and gold thread: lampas weave with areas of double cloth
Measurements
Overall: 28.6 x 26.7 cm (11 1/4 x 10 1/2 in.); Mounted: 38.7 x 36.8 cm (15 1/4 x 14 1/2 in.)
Credit Line
Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund 1928.648
Public Domain
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Location
Not on view
Print

Description

Alternating rows of two different forms of interlacing stars set within square frames convey a jewel-like brilliance with gold and contrasting colors. This fragment was reused in an ecclesiastical vestment that made its way to the cathedral at Lleida in Catalonia, in northeastern Spain. A document dated 1275 records that the Bishop of Lleida and his companions brought “[A] complete set of vestments, of Muslim manufacture, which ornaments they dedicated to San Valero.”
A rectangular textile fragment features staggered rows of squares filled with eight-pointed stars in primarily glinting gold, muted red, and blue threads. Thin horizontal bands separate each row. The fabric shows significant wear, including frayed edges and prominent creases across the surface. This repetitive geometric pattern creates a textured, aged appearance, with noticeable damage cutting into the right-hand side.

Vestment fragment with stars in staggered squares

1200s

Spain, probably Almeria

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