5-7th Century Coptic Textile Fragment - 15" x 9.5"

An exceptionally early Coptic textile fragment, woven more than 1,400 years ago, preserving richly patterned tapestry bands against a warm linen ground. Deep red fields are animated with scrolling vegetal forms and inset medallions containing highly stylized floral, animal, and possibly scarab-like motifs in ochre, green, cream, and dark brown.

The fragment was likely once part of a tunic or other garment, where elaborately woven bands and medallions served as both decoration and expressions of identity and status. The imagery reflects the layered visual culture of late antique Egypt, where classical, Christian, and older Egyptian motifs often overlapped and were transformed through increasingly abstract textile design.

Despite its fragmentary condition, the richness of the color and strength of the surviving pattern remain remarkably vivid. A compelling survival from late antique Egypt.

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Size: 15" x 9.5" [38cm x 24cm]

Age: 5-7th Century, AD

Country of Origin: Egypt 

Type of Textile: Coptic Fragment

Material: Wool on linen

Pile Height: Flatwoven

Condition: Good condition for its significant age. 

TX706

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