Band with Cross and Short-legged Aquatic Birds

Unknown

5th–7th century · Wool, linen; plain weave, tapestry weave, applied braid · Islamic Art

This finely worked band includes a cross among its varied pattern. While Egyptian textiles with religiously significant motifs are relatively rare, crosses may have been meant to associate the owners with their Christian faith. On this band a tall cross is decorated as if covered with jewels in a technique called the flying shuttle. The plump aquatic birds and curling wave patterns may refer to the Nile, the source of all abundance in Egypt. The red and white braid to the far right identifies the band as part of the decoration extending from the neck of a tunic.

Artist

Unknown

Date

5th–7th century

Medium

Wool, linen; plain weave, tapestry weave, applied braid

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Purchase by subscription, 1889