CULTURE / REGION OF ORIGIN: Coptic / Byzantine Egypt
DATE: 4th – 7th Century CE
DIMENSIONS: 23 x 14 cm (9.05 in x 5.51 in)

DESCRIPTION: A large fragment of Coptic tapestry textile, representing a section of tunic with double clavi in a brownish-purple hue, probably in wool, on a possibly undyed woolen ground. The clavi terminate at each end in three prongs and are bordered with a tight wave pattern that encloses the central repeating pattern of oval medallions containing vegetal motifs. The weft threads terminate and hang loose on the reverse behind the clavi. A fine example.

PROVENANCE: Ex UK collection, acquired on the UK art market prior to 2000

COMPARISONS: For examples of how clavi were used to ornament tunics and other articles of clothing, see Nancy Arthur Hoskins, The Coptic Tapestry Albums & the Archaeologist of Antinoe’, Albert Gayet, University of Washington Press, 2004, Figures 2.67 – 2.69.