Tabula (Square) with Vine Scrolls Containing Aquatic Birds

Unknown

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

Tunics and domestic furnishings were often decorated with orbiculi and tabulae (round and square medallions), frequently arranged in pairs. Birds and vine scrolls were popular motifs of abundance, the use of which continued from the classical world into later Byzantine and Islamic art. On this tabula the vine scroll has been reduced to interconnected circular motifs filled with aquatic birds and flowers, possibly lotus blossoms, the flower of the Nile.

Artist

Unknown

Date

5th–7th century

Medium

Wool, linen; plain weave, tapestry weave

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Gift of George F. Baker, 1890