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Photo © President and Fellows of Harvard College
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Identification and Creation

Object Number
1985.112
Title
Square with Sea Monsters
Classification
Textile Arts
Work Type
textile
Places
Creation Place: Ancient & Byzantine World, Africa, Egypt (Ancient)
Period
Byzantine period
Culture
Egyptian
Persistent Link
https://hvrd.art/o/99828

Physical Descriptions

Medium
Tapestry, linen and wool
Technique
Woven, tapestry weave
Dimensions
27.9 x 29.2 cm (11 x 11 1/2 in.)

Acquisition and Rights

Credit Line
Harvard Art Museums/Arthur M. Sackler Museum, Gift of Nanette B. Rodney
Accession Year
1985
Object Number
1985.112
Division
Asian and Mediterranean Art
Contact
am_asianmediterranean@harvard.edu
Permissions

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Descriptions

Description
This large tapestry square contains four roundels, each with an identical hybrid animal inside. These creatures appear to be half lion and half fish, or possibly hippocamps. Between the medallions are areas of decorative hatching composed of light and dark fibers. The tails and small fins on these creatures' tails are executed in yarn of a faded red color. Red bands also divide the front halves of the creatures from their fish tails and may indicate harnesses. Circles of this faded red color also appear in each area of hatching. Several small plant forms appear around the animals' legs and dark dots over their backs and heads.
Commentary
The harnesses around the chests of these hybrid animals suggest that they are hippocampi (sea horses), mythological creatures common in Greek art from ancient times. Hippocampi continue to be featured on textiles and other media in the Byzantine era.

The square shape and size suggests that this fragment may have once been part of a cushion cover.

Similarities to Met 2015.796.4

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