Tapestry Fragment in Dark Blue Wool
5th century
In Greek and Roman mythology, half-man half-horse beasts were known as centaurs. The most famous such creature, Chiron, was said to have taught legendary heroes such as Achilles, Jason, and Ajax, and Homer considered him to be the “most just” of all the centaurs (Iliad XI.832). This small fragment could have been woven into a tunic, or been part of a larger decorative tapestry. Although pagan creatures, centaurs continued to capture the minds of artists well into the middle ages and beyond, serving as enduring symbols of fantasy and antiquity.
Compare to the more-detailed centaur found on BZ.1972.4 in the Dumbarton Oaks Byzantine Collection.
Artwork Details
Title:
Tapestry Fragment in Dark Blue Wool
Date:
5th century
Geography:
Egypt
Classification:
Textile
Materials:
Linen and wool
Dimensions:
11 x 8.75 cm (4.25 x 3.5 in)
Repository:
McMullen Museum of Art, Boston College, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
Accession Number:
McMullen 2018.21
Tellalian Number:
Tellalian 1984-00050B
Donor:
Barbara and Donald Tellalian
Provenance:
Purchased from Nanette R. Kelekian on 24 March 1984. Previously in possession of Charles Dikran Kelekian, Ancient Arts, New York, NY. Provenance unknown prior to Kelekian family.
Exhibition History:
No known exhibition history
Publication History:
No known publication history
Conservation History:
No known conservation history