In the medallion is a bust of a haloed figure, flanked by plant motifs and stylised figure(s) with outstretched arms, spread over two levels.
Origin:
Egypt
Date:
6th - 9th century
Material:
Linen and wool
Dimensions:
Warp: 6 cm, weft: 11.5 cm
Comparisons:
Cf. FT 113 A.
The posture of the central figure is inherited from one of the classical representations of Gaia, the Earth. In her raised hands she holds folds of a fabric called ‘mappa’, filled with fruit and/or flowers, symbolising the fertility and wealth she provides. A similar example can be found in the mosaic to the goddess Gaia from the 6th century Hunting Lodge in Antioch.
Provenance:
Collection Coptic textiles Fill-Trevisiol: donation
Location:
Musée royal de Mariemont
Linen and woollen tapestry
II. Tapestry weave
Warp:
natural-coloured linen S2Z: 11/cm
Weft:
red, yellow, green, blue and brown wool S: 40/cm; natural-coloured linen S
Weave:
weft-faced tabby
Special techniques:
slit tapestry, eccentric weft