Textile Round: Knotted Motif
3rd-4th century CE
Description
Round textile fragment containing a pattern of knotted interlace surrounded by a border with a pattern that is likely a simplified version of a vine and grape motif. In the very center of the roundel is a four-petalled flower. The interlace consists of a pair of continuous parallel bands that coils and knots itself into four overhand knots. The effect is similar to a double Solomon’s knot. Where the two bands touch is decorated by a row of tiny dots. The majority of this roundel is composed of weft-faced weave of densely packed dark blue wefts. Small areas of undyed linen are introduced into the border design in slit tapestry. Almost all of the decoration on the roundel is created in the flying shuttle technique of supplementary weft wrapping. Undyed linen warps run throughout.
Dimensions
23 x 22.5 cm (9 1/16 x 8 7/8 in.)
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