tirazs

Tiraz refers to a tiraz (or tirazh) which is a form of textile inscription. These were often embroidered or woven banners, robes, or other textile items that bore inscriptions in Arabic script. Typically, the inscriptions would include the name of the caliph or ruler, the date of creation, and sometimes a religious or celebratory phrase. Tiraz textiles were produced in state-run workshops, often known as dar al-tiraz, in various Islamic empires from the Abbasid period onwards.

The purpose of a tiraz was multifaceted. It served as a clear mark of royal authority and prestige, demonstrating the ruler's power and beneficence. The inclusion of the ruler's name on the garment visually linked the wearer to the sovereign. Furthermore, tiraz textiles were considered valuable diplomatic gifts exchanged between rulers, symbolizing alliances and goodwill. The craftsmanship and luxurious materials used in their production also highlighted the wealth and sophistication of the empire.

The designs and motifs found on tiraz textiles varied across different regions and time periods, incorporating local artistic traditions alongside Islamic calligraphy. Surviving examples of tiraz textiles are rare and highly prized artifacts, offering valuable insights into the art, history, and political landscape of the medieval Islamic world. They are studied by art historians, textile scholars, and archaeologists for the information they provide about early Islamic textile production, calligraphy, and courtly life.