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Identification and Creation

Object Number
1975.41.11
Title
Square with Four Medallions
Classification
Textile Arts
Work Type
tapestry
Date
4th-6th century
Places
Creation Place: Ancient & Byzantine World, Africa, Egypt (Ancient)
Period
Byzantine period, Early
Culture
Byzantine
Persistent Link
https://hvrd.art/o/288730

Physical Descriptions

Medium
Wool and linen, tapestry weave
Technique
Woven, tapestry weave
Dimensions
20.5 x 21.5 cm (8 1/16 x 8 7/16 in.)

Acquisition and Rights

Credit Line
Harvard Art Museums/Arthur M. Sackler Museum, Gift of The Hagop Kevorkian Foundation in memory of Hagop Kevorkian
Accession Year
1975
Object Number
1975.41.11
Division
Asian and Mediterranean Art
Contact
am_asianmediterranean@harvard.edu
Permissions

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Descriptions

Description
Tapestry sqaure with four medallions, animal motifs, lion and rabbit. A lion and a rabbit in active poses accompany two crosses of undyed wool that stand out against dark backgrounds. Leaves fill the unoccupied space within the square, showing that the arrangement of these four medallions should be understood as a variant on the inhabited vine scroll pattern.
Commentary
The crosses and animals may have operated as protective talismans for the home or, if the square originally belonged to a garment, for the wearer: the combination of multiple protective motifs only enhanced the object’s power.

Exhibition History

  • 32Q: 3740 Egyptian, Harvard Art Museums, Cambridge, 06/20/2018 - 11/28/2018

Verification Level

This record was created from historic documentation and may not have been reviewed by a curator; it may be inaccurate or incomplete. Our records are frequently revised and enhanced. For more information please contact the Division of Asian and Mediterranean Art at am_asianmediterranean@harvard.edu