Animals and mythological creatures were one of the most common motifs in Coptic tapestry decoration in the Classical period between the 4th and 5th centuries AD. There is a clear Roman-Hellenistic influence which resulted in a reflexion of late classical styles and iconography.
Coptic textiles, whose production began in the 3rd and 4th centuries AD in Egypt, were hand woven with unbleached linen warps and dyed wool wefts. This beautiful Coptic textile managed to survive thanks to the dry and hot desert climate.
During the Early Coptic period (3rd – 4th centuries AD), the primary decorative themes were taken from nature and Classical mythology. By the Middle Coptic period (5th – 7th centuries AD), depictions included abstract natural elements and Christian symbolism, such as the one displayed on this beautiful piece.
