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Details

LOT 0543

Egyptian Coptic Textile Fragment Group

CIRCA 6TH-7TH CENTURY A.D.

2 3/8 - 6 1/8 in. (20 grams total including package, 6.1-15.6 cm).

Comprising a fragment of a clavus in white and purple linen and wool, S torsion, borders embroidered with pilasters, the central scene representing eagles alternating with geometric elements; a small fragment of another clavus, ornamented with running lions and fishes, borders with geometric patterns; a third fragment of a clavus, ornamented with vegetal patterns. [5, No Reserve]

Provenance

Acquired 1970s-1996.
Property of a North American collector.
London collection, 2016.

Literature

Cf. Del Francia Barocas, L., Museo dell'Alto Medioevo, Roma, I materiali Copti, pp.162-163, for similar textiles.

Footnotes

The clavi are realised in tapestry technique, and the one with prominent figures has a rounded end. They were part of a tunic decoration and the presence of the Imperial eagle, not a common pattern, could refer to a military tunic.

CONDITION

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LOT 0543

Egyptian Coptic Textile Fragment Group

Sold for (Inc. bp): £208

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