First Advisor

Anne McClanan

Date of Award

Spring 6-2024

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Art History and University Honors

Department

Art + Design

Language

English

Subjects

Coptic, Egyptian, textile, equestrian, warrior, Mediterranean

DOI

10.15760/honors.1592

Abstract

The warrior on horseback visual motif has existed for millenia. Such equestrian imagery was widely distributed in the visual arts and material culture, including that of textiles. This scholarly exploration centers on an unpublished Coptic Egyptian textile fragment portraying a warrior atop a horse in motion, presenting an analysis of its symbolic significance and potential cultural functions. Through an intricate examination of the artifact and comparative study with contemporaneous first millennium CE eastern Mediterranean material culture, this extraordinary equestrian motif and its implications for understanding ancient visual narratives is realized. By situating the textile fragment within its historical and cultural framework, a world of meanings is unveiled in the imagery, offering valuable insights into the artistic expressions and societal values of the period. Drawing upon archival sources and scholarly discourse, a narrative is constructed that not only adds to the overall comprehension of equestrian imagery but also underscores the intricate interplay between art, religion, and social practices in ancient Egypt. This investigation contributes to the broader discourse on Coptic textiles and visual symbolism, inviting further scholarly inquiry into the complexities of ancient iconography and its cultural resonances.

Persistent Identifier

https://archives.pdx.edu/ds/psu/42383

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