The textile weavers of Egypt were considered the
finest in the ancient world. Using wool, silk, and
linen, they created bold pictorial masterpieces to
adorn the garments of the rich and powerful.
Dating to the twilight of the pagan age, this
small roundel depicts a scene from classical
mythology. A naked sea nymph carrying a
seashell sits upon a hippogriff, a creature with a
lion's head and a fish's tail. Defined with strong,
clear lines and an eye to unity of design, this
charming piece evokes a world in transition, the
last brilliant flowering of paganism.
- (PF.1260)
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