Tapestry, dyed wool and undyed linen

Egypt has been known for its textile production since ancient times. This fairly coarse tapestry belongs to a group that was made under the Turkish Tulunid dynasty. In contrast to tiraz textiles, where inscriptions played the main role, these pieces are figurative. They reflect both the local Coptic tradition and finer silk fabrics of the type that was made for the Byzantine and Sasanian courts.

A stylized tree of life is surrounded by confronted sphinxes and addorsed lions framed by a medallion. The pattern is a bit clumsy, but it also displays a power and colorfulness that might bring to mind Turkish kilims.