Currelly Society & Royal Patrons Circle - Special Lecture

The Caliphate Contested: Inscriptions of Power and Blessing

The ROM has one of the largest collections of textiles from the early Islamic period; the first of which were acquired by Charles Currelly in Egypt. Discover why Egypt remains a main provider of such perishable objects. Understand how a new exhibition will highlight the production of caliphal workshops, role of robes in courtly gift giving, and importance bestowed on textile by the inscription (tiraz). Learn of the Fatimid dynasty - descendants of the prophet Muhammad who ruled Egypt.