Egypt, Coptic culture, ca. 2nd to 5th century CE. A finely detailed textile fragment constructed from tightly-woven animal fur fibers in earthen hues of tan, citrine, and cobalt. The central column features a repeating program with two types of scenes: a pair of abstract avian creatures flanking a triangular archway containing a semicircular object, and a pair of stylized anthropomorphic figures dancing in-between a pair of volute-topped columns. A pair of lateral registers contain a series of dark, circular objects emanating from a sloped base. This textile fragment was perhaps part of an article of clothing like a tunic or perhaps a bag strap. Mounted on a modern cotton fabric backing. Size (textile): 7.7" W x 11.2" H (19.6 cm x 28.4 cm); (display backing): 12" W x 13.1" H (30.5 cm x 33.3 cm)

Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection, acquired 1980;ex-private Larchmont collection, New York, USA, between 1948 to 1960

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#162406

This is a fragment of a larger textile composition that is mounted atop a modern fabric backing. Losses to scattered interior and exterior areas as shown. Minor staining and fraying to fibers in some areas. Nice preservation to remaining decorative motifs.