Two assembled fragments of bands from the same textile with Nilotic decor

Inventory number: FT 148
Photo Michel Lechien, Musée royal de Mariemont

In the first band, fish, turtles, winged creatures and aquatic plants mingle together. In the centre, a medallion with a red ground has a seated putto, holding a basket. Partially preserved on a second fragment is a medallion with a red ground, decorated with an aquatic plant. Two friezes of pomegranates enclose and link the two bands, the width of which is not identical.

Origin:

Egypt

Date:

5th - 7th century

Material:

Linen and wool

Dimensions:

1) Warp: 12 cm, weft: 29.5 cm;
2) Warp: 13.3 cm, weft: 5.5 cm

Comparisons:

Louvre, inv. AC 636.
Musée d'Art et d'Histoire, Genève, inv. 13883.

Provenance:

Collection Coptic textiles Fill-Trevisiol: donation

Location:

Musée royal de Mariemont

Woollen tapestry

I. No ground weave


II. Tapestry areas

Warp:

natural-coloured wool S: 9-10/cm

Weft:

red, purple and natural-coloured wool S: +/- 55/cm

Weave:

weft-faced tabby

Special techniques:

slit tapestry, eccentric weft, flying thread brocading with wool yarn for details

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