Object Image

Band with Figures of Women and Angels

Unknown Artist

Likely a religious scene, female figures bear crosses on their chests facing angels playing a keyboard instrument. Later piecing and repairs have distorted the appearance of the central figure to that of a double-tailed mermaid. The top part of her dress has been replaced with an extra bust and set of arms. This is especially visible when comparing the bottom of her dress with the dresses of the far left and far right figures.

Credit: Gift of Myrta Leonora Jones

1500s-1600s
Bleached linen: needle lace, filet/lacis (knotted ground and darned in two directions)
42.6 x 144.3cm
1920.1272
Image and text: The Cleveland Museum of Art, 2023

Where you'll find this

The Cleveland Museum of Art
The Cleveland Museum of Art
Permanent collection