Loading, please wait...
LOT 0435
Large Egyptian Coptic Textile Fragment
CIRCA 5TH-9TH CENTURY A.D.
14 1/8 in. (103 grams total including package, 36 cm).
A very large tunic fragment from the upper part of the garment, in purple and red wool over linen, S torsion, a horizontal band with geometric patterns alternating with zig-zag lines, and descending on the breast with two clavi, patterned in similar way; red border with cords in the upper part, dentilled border with floral and vegetal ornaments (plants, flowers and buds with cross) in the lower part.
ProvenanceAcquired 1970s-1996.
Property of a North American collector.
London collection, 2016.
Cf. Seagrott, M., Coptic Weaves, Merseyside County Museums, 1978, pl.18, for a fragment of a similar band.
FootnotesThese decorative bands had a ground weave in purple wool, with natural linen and red forming the inlaid design of formal sprigs and zig-zag patterns. The double woven selvedge of the tunic’s neck has been preserved in the upper part.
CONDITIONTimeLine Auctions follows a vetting process to ensure the authenticity and legality of all items, reinforcing our commitment to integrity and responsible trading. Each antiquity, antique, and coin lot undergoes thorough examination by a vetting committee of at least ten external specialists, professional trade association members, scientists, and archaeologists: Our Vetting Process
AUCTIONS:
TimeLine is a leading auction house specialising in antiquities, ancient art, collectables, natural history, coins, medals, and books. Our auctions offer museums, collectors, historians, and enthusiasts the opportunity to acquire unique and historically significant pieces.
-
Egyptian Faience Shabti
Ptolemaic Period, 332-30 B.C.Sold for (Inc. bp): £104
D-shaped in section with tripartite wig and beard, hands holding agricultural tools to the chest. 13.9 grams, 77 mm
Ex London, UK, collection, 1990s. -
Coptic Wooden Jar with Lid
4th-6th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £98
Columnar in profile, turned wooden vessel with stepped rim and dark-red painted band below the lip; domed lid with inner locating ring to underside; flat panel to the apex. 147 grams total, 11.5 cm high
London, UK, art market, 1990s. From the collection of G.M.R.H., London, UK. -
Egyptian Gold Bes Amulet
New Kingdom, circa 1550-1070 B.C.Sold for (Inc. bp): £1,235
Mask of Bes with feathered crown; attachment bar to reverse. 3.57 grams, 18 mm
Ex French collection, early 20th century. From the collection of a late Japanese gentleman, 1970s onwards.
From the New Kingdom onwards, Bes became one of ancient Egypt's most popular apotropaic deities. Despite his somewhat fearsome appearance, Bes served as the patron and protector of pregnant women and children, and was also believed to shield them from snakes.
