Fragment Roman period (30 B.C.– 641 A.D.), 4th/6th century

This textile fragment, crafted by an anonymous Coptic artist, presents a compelling interplay of form and pattern. The fabric's weathered texture and muted brown palette create a subdued yet engaging visual experience. The composition is structured around vertical bands filled with circular motifs. Within these circles, stylized figures and objects repeat, suggesting a symbolic language. Structurally, the repetition of these figures and objects could denote an adherence to established cultural narratives. But the somewhat crude execution of the figures and the irregular pattern of the circles also suggest the decentralization of a strict hierarchy. This tension between pattern and imperfection invites us to consider how art can operate both within and against established codes. In its fragmented state, the textile embodies a dialogue between preservation and loss, inviting us to contemplate the passage of time.