Tunic Ornament Showing Christ and the Virgin Flanked by Angels?

Unknown

7th–8th century · Wool, linen; tapestry weave · Islamic Art

This ornament once adorned a tunic meant for a wealthy Christian, possibly a cleric. While Christians are known to have worn such decorations as early as the fourth century, the highly stylized image dates this work to the end of the Byzantine occupation of Egypt or the beginning of its Islamic era, when the Coptic church had become the dominant Christian community in Egypt.

Artist

Unknown

Date

7th–8th century

Medium

Wool, linen; tapestry weave

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Gift of George F. Baker, 1890