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Carved marble slab, Coptic 6th-7th century, V&A Museum, London

Unknown

1934

photographic

From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum

Early Modern

Dominant colour

Carved marble slab, Coptic 6th-7th century, V&A Museum, London is a 1934 photographic by Unknown, held at Victoria and Albert Museum.

Who painted this?: Unknown
When & what style?: 1934
Where can I see it?: Victoria and Albert Museum

About this work

This is a black-and-white photo of a carved marble slab. The surface is packed with repeating patterns—swirls, dots, and shapes that look like leaves or flowers. Some areas have deeper cuts, making parts of the design stand out more. The overall look is busy but balanced, like a puzzle where every piece fits. The slab’s style hints it might be old, but this photo was taken much later. The V&A Museum in London holds the original. Check out the Victoria and Albert Museum to see more like this.

The story of this work

Overview

A carved marble slab from the 6th–7th century Coptic period is depicted in one of two black-and-white photographs mounted on card, featuring intersecting scrolls.

Read the full account in the museum source.