Two remnants of ancient needlework, possibly Egyptian, 4th - 7th century, likely gathered by noted art collector Kirkor Minassian during his frequent journeys to the Middle East.

(1) Pictorial textile fragment, approximately 8” x 5.5”, tan background depicting two figures in brown fabric conversing. Head covering resembles Egyptian headdress. Some loss, mostly at left tan background and brown fabric perimeter. Very little loss at figures.

(2) Decorative textile depicting a 2” x 2.5” oval-shaped pendant suspended from a 1.5” by 6” strip, sewn onto a 2.5” x 10.75” woven strip. One symbol is depicted on the strip; five symbols are embroidered on the pendant. Fine condition.

When acquired by University Archives, these two tapestries were accompanied by an original card headed “25.113 Tapestry,” cataloging “Egyptian (Coptic) 4th – 7th century / Byzantine? Influence / Pendant medallion from a linen garment. / Circle in dark green, with stem at top…” The catalogue card notes that it was “Purchased with contributions at Minassian Sale in New York, April 6, 1925. See 25.104.” It seems likely that either or both tapestries here offered were described on card “25.104” which is not present.

The advertisement in “The New York Times” announced the April 6, 1925, sale of “A Colorful Collection of decorative art of the Near East … gathered in the course of his travels by Kirkor Minassian…” Photocopy included. Two years later, “Coptic tapestries” were mentioned in an ad for another offering by Minassian.

From LOC,gov: “In the late 1920s and 1930s the Library [of Congress] acquired from Kirkor Minassian (1874-1944), New York art dealer and authority on Near Eastern manuscripts, over two hundred items relating to the development of writing and the book arts in the Middle East.” Museums in which art acquired by Minassian are displayed include the Frick Collection and the British Museum.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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