Square Panel Roman period (30 B.C.– 641 A.D.), 5th/6th century

This Square Panel was woven by Coptic artists, and it showcases a world where symbols transcend mere decoration, revealing profound cultural and psychological truths. See the central motif: the encircled animal, a symbol with roots stretching back to ancient times. This echoes the protective, life-affirming qualities of the animal deities found in cultures across the globe. Around it, the patterns evoke movement and continuity. Such symbols are not static; they evolve, adapting to new cultural landscapes while retaining their primal emotional power. Consider how the image might tap into our collective unconscious. The circular frame of the central image resembles the Ouroboros, a symbol of cyclical existence, rebirth, and the eternal return. This image resonates across epochs, appearing in ancient alchemy and modern psychology. The emotions evoked – safety, continuity, and the mystery of the eternal – engage the viewer. This panel exemplifies how symbols resurface and evolve, echoing throughout history and across cultures, carrying layers of meaning that engage us on a deeply psychological level.