Cuff band with animals in interlocking scrolls
Late 4th-early 5th century
Description
This fragment’s size and double band design suggests that it originally ornamented the sleeve cuff of a tunic. The bands are figured as inhabited grape vine scrolls; each roundel of the vine scrolls holds a pair of running animals, including rabbits, goats, gazelles, and felines. The rightmost pairs face opposite to the rest, interrupting the flow of movement from left to right and introducing a chaotic energy to the composition. Red yarn details emphasize the animals’ panting tongues. The bands are tapestry woven, however the fabric between, above, and below the bands is plain/tabby woven. Supplementary weft wrapping in a light colored thread creates details on the roundels, animals, and grape leaves.
Dimensions
sight: 19.7 × 30.2 cm (7 3/4 × 11 7/8 in.)
Provenance
From the collection of Lilian and Benjamin Hertzberg.
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