Tabula (Square) with Vine Scrolls Containing Aquatic Birds

5th–7th century

Not on view

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.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Exhibition History

Title: Tabula (Square) with Vine Scrolls Containing Aquatic Birds
Date: 5th–7th century
Geography: Attributed to Egypt
Medium: Wool, linen; plain weave, tapestry weave
Dimensions: H. 4 3/4 in. (12 cm)
W. 4 3/4 in. (12 cm)
Classification: Textiles
Credit Line: Gift of George F. Baker, 1890
Object Number: 90.5.150a
Curatorial Department: Islamic Art

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