Looped-Weft Fragment of Bird
6th-7th century
This relatively large fragment depicts a crudely stylized bird with a powerful, all-seeing red eye. The looped-weft weaving pattern is particularly noticeable on the bird’s body, and it is possible this fragment was part of a larger decorative tapestry such as a tablecloth or curtain. One might alternatively categorize this creature as a camel, but a definitive identification remains elusive.
Contrast this bird with the more zoologically accurate dove on McMullen 2018.22, as well as the various bird textile fragments sold at Bonhams in London on 1 April 2014 (Lot 220).
Notably, this fragment was once owned by the legendary actor Zero Mostel, who was known to collect Coptic art.
Artwork Details
Title:
Looped-Weft Fragment of Bird
Date:
6th-7th century
Geography:
Egypt
Classification:
Textile
Materials:
Linen and wool
Dimensions:
28.5 x 25.5 cm (11.25 x 10 in)
Repository:
McMullen Museum of Art, Boston College, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
Accession Number:
McMullen 2018.24
Tellalian Number:
Tellalian 1986-00300D
Donor:
Barbara and Donald Tellalian
Provenance:
Purchased at auction, Sotheby's, New York, NY on 24 November 1986. Antiquities and Islamic Works of Art, Lot #192. Previously owned by the estate of Zero Mostel.
Exhibition History:
No known exhibition history
Publication History:
No known publication history
Conservation History:
No known conservation history