Sleeve (?) decoration with a double row of busts

Inventory number: FT 84
Photo Michel Lechien, Musée royal de Mariemont

Two bands of medallions, with interlaced foliated scrolls, contain the busts of figures with frizzy hair and wearing tunics with clavi. (Their identification is uncertain: perhaps a representation of deceased persons, inspired by classical iconography (cf FT 44), or simply a decorative motif?).

Origin:

Egypt

Date:

4th - 6th century

Material:

Linen and wool

Dimensions:

Warp: 16 cm, weft: 25 cm

Comparisons:

V&A, London, inv. T.1300-1888.
RMAH, Brussels, inv. ACO.Tx.243.
National Museum of Ireland, inv. 465-1888.

Provenance:

Collection Coptic textiles Fill-Trevisiol: donation

Location:

Musée royal de Mariemont

Linen and woollen tapestry woven separately or retrieved

I. Ground weave

(2) Applied band

Warp:

(1) natural-coloured linen S: 20/cm
(2) natural-coloured linen S: 30/cm

Weft:

(1) natural-coloured linen S: 11/cm
(2) natural-coloured linen S: 18/cm

Weave:

(1) warp-faced tabby
(2) warp-faced tabby weave

II. Tapestry weave

(2) Applied band

Warp:

(2) linen S

Weft:

(2) purple wool S: +/- 56/cm; natural-coloured linen S: +/- 46/cm

Weave:

(2) extended tabby: irregular units of 2, 3 and 4 warp yarns

Ribs per cm:

(2): 8

Special techniques:

(2) slit tapestry, eccentric weft, flying thread brocading linen S, lazy lines

Share