ISLAMIC, INDIAN ART & JEWELS

Lot 304:

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A FRAMED RED KAABA KISWA TEXTILE, TURKEY, OTTOMAN 19TH/20TH CENTURY

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Start price: £380

Estimated price: £400 - £600

Buyer's premium:

Description

A striking rectangular textile fragment from an Ottoman-period Kiswa, traditionally used as part of the ceremonial cloth covering of the Kaaba. Woven in a deep crimson-red ground, the panel is decorated throughout with repeating zigzag bands of thuluth calligraphy in cream tones. The inscriptions—which appear to include devotional phrases and the shahada—are executed with the bold, rhythmic flow characteristic of Ottoman calligraphic ornament.


Each band of script is framed by narrow geometric borders, creating a visually arresting pattern that alternates direction in a sawtooth formation. The overall effect is both dynamic and harmonious, reflecting the high-quality weaving and aesthetic refinement associated with Ottoman religious textiles.

113 x 80cm