Fragment of a Border Roman period (30 B.C.– 641 A.D.)/Arab period (641–969), 6th/7th century

This undated fragment of a border was made by a Coptic artisan with wool and linen. The textile was created in Egypt, a place where the rise of Christianity and traditional pagan beliefs were in conflict. In this context, the border presents us with an intriguing mix of imagery. We see a parade of figures including humans and animals. The themes and styles are drawn from both Greek and Egyptian sources reflecting a convergence of identity and culture in a region undergoing religious change. The fragment offers an intimate glimpse into the daily lives and beliefs of the people who created and used it. It serves as a reminder of the complexities inherent in cultural exchange. It embodies how individuals negotiate their identities amidst shifting social and political landscapes.