In the axis, a vase of acanthus leaves and symmetrical, multi-coloured flowers. On each side, facing outwards, a bird and a lion turning its head. Purple foliated scrolls frame the medallion.
Origin:
Egypt
Date:
6th - 9th century
Material:
Linen and wool
Dimensions:
Warp: 15.5 cm, weft: 15.5 cm
Comparisons:
Kunstsammlungen Chemnitz, inv. Ko 356: lions.
Provenance:
Collection Coptic textiles Fill-Trevisiol: donation
Location:
Musée royal de Mariemont
Separately-woven tapestry on linen and wool
I. Ground weave
Not analysed, covered by the support fabric
II. Tapestry areas
Warp:
natural-coloured linen S2Z: 12/cm
Weft:
red, black, purple, yellow, brown, blue, orange, and green wool S: 66-72/cm; natural-coloured linen S
Weave:
weft-faced tabby
Special techniques:
slit tapestry, eccentric weft, soumak-wrapped outlines