- 52
A Coptic Textile, 8th - 9th century
Estimate
5,000 - 7,000 USD
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Description
wool and linen.
height 1 in.; length 10 3/4 in.
2.5 cm; 27.3 cm
In the late antique period, there existed a large variety of decorative marks and bands that ornamented clothing. Tunics were commonly decorated with embroidered strips called clavi. These bands were applied vertically on each side of the garment front and back and also found around the sleeves, the neck opening and the hem of the tunic. In early Roman culture, the clavus was originally a badge of rank but by the first century it became a purely decorative feature. This example is embroidered with a recurring design of menorahs, lions and Stars of David (or hexagrams) all of which appear in Jewish contexts since antiquity as decorative motifs.
RELATED LITERATURE:
Alfred Rubens, A History of Jewish Costume, 1967, pp. 25-26
height 1 in.; length 10 3/4 in.
2.5 cm; 27.3 cm
In the late antique period, there existed a large variety of decorative marks and bands that ornamented clothing. Tunics were commonly decorated with embroidered strips called clavi. These bands were applied vertically on each side of the garment front and back and also found around the sleeves, the neck opening and the hem of the tunic. In early Roman culture, the clavus was originally a badge of rank but by the first century it became a purely decorative feature. This example is embroidered with a recurring design of menorahs, lions and Stars of David (or hexagrams) all of which appear in Jewish contexts since antiquity as decorative motifs.
RELATED LITERATURE:
Alfred Rubens, A History of Jewish Costume, 1967, pp. 25-26
Condition
Mounted on linen backing that is slightly frayed at the extreme edges. There is a repaired zig-zag tear approximately 1 1/2 inch from the top of the textile in the first menorah. Otherwise in generally good condition.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.