Neck Band from a Tunic

5th–8th century
Not on view
Two diademed erotes, each carrying a bowl of flowers or fruit, fly toward the center of this playfully decorated neckline. They are flanked by a menagerie of fish, hares (?), and lions amid abstract trees. The dark blue border above is studded with circles, calling to mind a jeweled necklace. The stylized tree marking the center of the neckline appears to dangle from the blue border like a gem-encrusted pendant. Red festoons accented with yellow, red, and green blossoms create the lower border. The flora, fauna, and jewels of the neckline are associated with abundance and prosperity and are frequently found on early Byzantine textiles.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Neck Band from a Tunic
  • Date: 5th–8th century
  • Geography: Attributed to Egypt
  • Medium: Wool, linen; tapestry weave
  • Dimensions: Max. H. 12 5/16 in. (31.2 cm)
    Max. W. 3 3/8 in. (8.5 cm)
  • Classification: Textiles
  • Credit Line: Gift of George F. Baker, 1890
  • Object Number: 90.5.585
  • Curatorial Department: Islamic Art

More Artwork

Research Resources

The Met provides unparalleled resources for research and welcomes an international community of students and scholars. The Met's Open Access API is where creators and researchers can connect to the The Met collection. Open Access data and public domain images are available for unrestricted commercial and noncommercial use without permission or fee.

To request images under copyright and other restrictions, please use this Image Request form.

Feedback

We continue to research and examine historical and cultural context for objects in The Met collection. If you have comments or questions about this object record, please complete and submit this form. The Museum looks forward to receiving your comments.