Black and Gold Aba

This zok tapestry woven aba was made in 19th century Syria out of silk and metallic thread. Zok is a warp faced, slit tapestry technique reminiscent of flat weave rugs.  The black and gold areas are interlaced back and forth in their own areas. The other colors are worked in continuous supplementary weft.

Abas are open robes worn by men. They are woven in two parts that are sewn together to create the complete garment. The decoration is usually geometric, sometimes with calligraphy. Textiles and garments indicated the wearer’s wealth and status, so this aba would have been worn on special occasions. More casual abas were made of wool or cotton.