Tunic with Dionysian Ornament

Unknown

probably 5th century · Linen, wool; plain weave, tapestry weave · Islamic Art

A longer, wider version of the tunic was the ubiquitous garment of the Late Antique period. This tunic is one of four in the Museum's collection said to be from Akhmim, an ancient weaving center and apparently a center of both pagan and Christian thought and religion. The burgeoning ornament of this tunic expresses Dionysian themes, culminating with an image of the god himself on the shoulder squares.

Artist

Unknown

Date

probably 5th century

Medium

Linen, wool; plain weave, tapestry weave

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Gift of Edward S. Harkness, 1926