Tiraz

This is a remarkable fragment from an 11th-century textile of Islamic origin, known as a tiraz. It was a symbol of sovereignty, and it was the caliph's prerogative to bestow the honor of wearing this luxurious item as a great distinction. Made from plain-woven silk with gold threads, it has a central band with geometric and figurative decorations inspired by Eastern art. This is set between bands of inscriptions praising Allah with the Basmala phrase, "In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the most Merciful." It is in good condition thanks to having been later used to wrap a box of relics (lipsanotheca) used to consecrate the altar of the church in Colls, Ribagorza (Huesca province). It was the Muslims who brought the art of silk weaving to the Iberian peninsula, producing intricately decorated fabrics in accordance with their religious system. These were highly prized and admired in Christian kingdoms. These textiles are characterized by the high quality of the weaving and dying techniques. They are very lightweight compared to the heavy brocade fabrics produced in Christian workshops.