This remarkable assemblage of over 100 textiles, including three full tunics and several partial ones, was formed since the mid-20th century by a European private collector. The fabric works serve as an eloquent document of the changing cultures of the postclassical period.

Portrait roundel with "Isis" curls; 200 AD-699 AD; 13.1 cm x 13.1 cm; Accession #: TL37320.C14

The tapestry-woven and loop-pile com-positions vary in scale from large wall hangings to small details originally woven into clothing. The images of dancers, children, animals, and birds reflect the blending of Egyptian with Roman, Byzantine, and Islamic traditions.

The Rich Life and the Dance was organized by the Krannert Art Museum of the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, and is accompanied by a fully illustrated catalogue.