Oriental Panel

3D Model

AD500s (frame), AD700s (central panel) Wood with paint Egypt 1954.799

This wooden panel and its frame come from different locations. The four narrow panels formaing the outer frame are stylistically datable to the 500s. The central panel might date to the 700s. It is most likely a carved ceiling, but its architectural context is unkown. Both have been cut down and joined together at some point in their history under unknown circumstances.

The decorative program of the main panel features two large rosettes surrounded by florets, leaves, and fruit. The outer frame features two flying angels holding a wreath, a peacock, an octopus, a seated fisherman who holds a line with a fish attached, and a swimming boy with a dolphin. The vocabulary of the frame is dominated by water life, particularly of the Nile and its banks. Though separated from its original place and altered, this important object provides a welcome glimpse of an architectural interior from early Christian Egypt.

Adapted from description at CMA