Geometric Decoration
Geometric Decoration in Textiles
‘Inscriptions tended to appear on fabrics in bands.’
Inscriptions were also used as a decorative element in textiles, particularly kufic script on account of its rectilinear, angular and geometric forms. It tended to appear on fabrics in bands, although it could also be adapted to fit the different shapes formed by geometric motifs. Conversely, the spaces formed by the letters were sometimes decorated with geometric designs. Inscriptions on fabrics could indicate its place of manufacture, praise Allah or the sovereign, or reproduce Qur'anic verses and talismanic inscriptions or formulas.
Fragment of a robe

Hegira 427–87 / AD 1036–94
Fatimid; reign of Al-Mustansir billah
Museum of Islamic Art at the Pergamon Museum
Berlin, Germany
This fragment was initially part of an upper tiraz or band. The two dark-blue borders are decorated with white kufic inscriptions: the Shahada (Profession of the faith) at the top, and details of who commissioned the piece below, although the name is missing.