Lot 316: AN OTTOMAN-STYLE EMBROIDERED SILK AND METAL-THREAD CALLIGRAPHIC PANEL, DATED AH 1337 / 1918 AD

An Ottoman-style embroidered silk and metal-thread calligraphic panel or ceremonial textile. The piece features a black silk ground with a central field of red silk, upon which the Shahada is embroidered in heavy, raised silver-gilt thread using a couching technique. The calligraphic text in Thuluth script reads: La ilaha illa Allah, Muhammadur Rasulullah (There is no god but Allah, Muhammad is the messenger of Allah). Positioned below the main script is an embroidered date inscription reading Sana 1337, referring to the Hijri year 1327 which corresponds to 1918-1919 AD. The central composition is enclosed within a wide border of stylized foliate scrolls and floral rosettes in matching metallic embroidery. The style and execution of the piece are consistent with late Ottoman Empire textiles produced in the tradition of holy site covers or ceremonial hangings, often associated with the decorative programme of the Kiswa.

117 by 68cm