1250 Shajar al-Durr

Mamluk Fish Fabric

A historically inspired fabric based on an original 13th-century textile fragment from Mamluk Egypt.

The repeating pattern features rows of lively stylised fish with dotted bodies, curved fins and wonderfully expressive faces. The original design was created using carved wooden blocks printed onto a plain-weave cotton ground.

Two separate printing blocks were used to complete each fish, which can still be seen in small breaks across the bodies of two fish on the surviving fragment. The technique reached Egypt through trade with India, while the fish itself was a traditional Egyptian motif.

This distinctive medieval design is suitable for historical garments, costumes, accessories, interiors and museum-inspired creative projects.

Custom colours and scale

The colours and size of the fish can be adjusted upon request. Please contact me before ordering if you would like the design adapted to your project.

Dedicated to Shajar al-Durr

This fabric has been named 1250 Shajar al-Durr after the influential Egyptian ruler who played a central role in the transition from the Ayyubid dynasty to the Mamluk Sultanate. She briefly ruled Egypt in 1250 and remained an important political figure until her death in 1257.