Early Islamic linen shirt, Fatimid Caliphate, 10-12th century
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This Early Islamic linen shirt is a historically grounded reconstruction based on an original garment preserved in the Royal Ontario Museum (object no. 910.1.9), dated to 8th–12th century Egypt.
This simple yet beautifully proportioned shirt represents a rare surviving example of fine early medieval Islamic tailoring. The original piece is made of finely woven linen in a uniform tabby weave and luxuriously trimmed with silk twill around the neckline and cuffs. Despite its apparent simplicity, the quality of materials and finishing clearly indicate that it was a high-status garment.
The cut reflects a narrow, elongated body with a gently flared lower section and full, slightly bouffant sleeves gathered toward the cuffs. These proportions create an elegant vertical silhouette while maintaining comfort and mobility. Certain structural elements recall late Sasanian garment traditions, yet no exact parallels have survived, making this piece unique within the known corpus of early Islamic textiles.
The most important element of this garment is the balance between refinement and restraint.
The base fabric is fine linen woven in a plain tabby structure, breathable and suitable for warm climates such as medieval Egypt. The contrasting silk twill trim at the neckline and cuffs adds subtle but unmistakable prestige. This combination of linen and silk is consistent with high-quality urban or courtly clothing of the period.
In our reconstruction, we preserve the original proportions and distinctive sleeve volume while carefully reproducing the silk-trimmed finishing. The garment maintains the elegant narrow body and gentle flare characteristic of the museum piece. No modern tailoring shortcuts, shaping, or anachronistic modifications are introduced.
Key Features
Early Islamic linen shirt (8th–12th century Egypt)
Based on Royal Ontario Museum object no. 910.1.9
Narrow body with gently flared lower section
Full, slightly bouffant sleeves
Fabric: 100% fine linen (tabby weave)
Trim: silk twill at neckline
Original museum-size option available
Historically grounded, source-based reconstruction
Suitable for reenactment, living history, museum interpretation, and educational use
Sizing
Please select the appropriate size according to the size chart below.
We add the necessary ease to all measurements to ensure the garment can be worn comfortably and in accordance with historical authenticity.
If your measurements differ from those listed below, please send us a message with your exact measurements, and we will adjust the garment accordingly.
| Size | EU | Chest | Waist | Sleeve Length (from shoulder) | Wrist Circumference |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| S | 46 | 92–96 cm | 80–84 cm | 60–62 cm | 17–18 cm |
| M | 48 | 96–100 cm | 84–88 cm | 61–63 cm | 18–19 cm |
| L | 50 | 100–104 cm | 88–92 cm | 62–64 cm | 19–20 cm |
| XL | 52 | 104–110 cm | 92–98 cm | 63–65 cm | 20–21 cm |
| XXL | 54 | 110–116 cm | 98–104 cm | 64–66 cm | 21–22 cm |
Ordering & Production Time
This is a made-to-order garment.
The standard production time is up to 2 months from the moment all measurements are confirmed.
An express order option is available:
production time: up to 7 days
+25% surcharge added to the base price
If you are interested in express production, please contact us before placing your order.
Historical Use
This garment is intended for:
Early Islamic reenactment
Egyptian and Eastern Mediterranean contexts (8th–12th century)
Urban and elite representations
Living history and museum display
No fantasy or later medieval elements are added. This garment is designed for reenactors and historical interpreters who value documented textiles, authentic materials, and historically consistent craftsmanship over theatrical costume aesthetics.
