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Identification and Creation

Object Number
1931.35.7
Title
Fragment of a Clavus (tunic band): Figure and Floral Design
Classification
Textile Arts
Work Type
textile
Date
6th-7th century
Places
Creation Place: Africa, Egypt
Period
Byzantine period, Early
Culture
Egyptian
Persistent Link
https://hvrd.art/o/215199

Physical Descriptions

Medium
Wool and linen, tapestry weave
Technique
Woven, tapestry weave
Dimensions
25.72 x 4.76 cm (10 1/8 x 1 7/8 in.)

Acquisition and Rights

Credit Line
Harvard Art Museums/Arthur M. Sackler Museum, Gift of Charles Bain Hoyt
Accession Year
1931
Object Number
1931.35.7
Division
Asian and Mediterranean Art
Contact
am_asianmediterranean@harvard.edu
Permissions

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Descriptions

Description
Haloed figure against pink background. Figure has simplified body, covered arms, long blue and gold cloak with a red mantle, and a face consisting of large eyes, a long nose, and rosy cheeks. Below the haloed figure, heartshaped red and green buds alternate with opulent blooms woven against a light background. Border of interlocking colored segments.
Commentary
The haloed figure is possibly a Christian saint, though he or she has no identifying attributes or accompanying inscription to make this designation certain. This lack of specific features, though, is typical of representations of holy personages appearing on textiles in Late Antiquity.

Cat no. G317 in Pierre du Bourguet's Les Etoffes Coptes du Musee du Louvre. Editions des Musees Nationaux (1964) features the same floral elements and border as does this clavus.

Exhibition History

  • 32Q: 3740 Egyptian, Harvard Art Museums, Cambridge, 06/01/2017 - 11/28/2017

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