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Fragment of a Wall Hanging with Figures in Elaborate Dress

4th–6th century

Not on view

The two figures framed by a jeweled arcade are dressed in styles popular from Syria to Libya from the seventh to the ninth century. The figure at left wears a Sasanian-inspired dress, and the one at right wears a belted woven-to-shape tunic and a mantle. The personifications and their gifts represent the abundance of the earth and were meant to bring prosperity to the textile’s owner. Similar images are found throughout the Mediterranean world and were especially popular on textiles and floor mosaics.

Fragment of a Wall Hanging with Figures in Elaborate Dress, Tapestry weave in polychrome wool — This image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

Title: Fragment of a Wall Hanging with Figures in Elaborate Dress

Date: 4th–6th century

Geography: Made in Egypt

Medium: Tapestry weave in polychrome wool

Dimensions: 16 3/4 x 25 in. (42.5 x 63.5 cm)

Classification: Textiles

Credit Line: Byzantine Collection, Dumbarton Oaks, Washington D.C. (BZ.1970.43)

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Medieval Art and The Cloisters at The Met

The Museum's collection of medieval and Byzantine art is among the most comprehensive in the world, encompassing the art of the Mediterranean and Europe from the fall of Rome to the beginning of the Renaissance.