Reconstruction of the band with the animal pattern from the tomb of St Bathilde
Unlike the geometrically patterned band from St Bathilde's tomb and the sleeve trim of St Bertille, the third band from Chelles (France) is seldomly reproduced. (So far I know about the only copy by Marijke van Eppen ). The reason is probably not only its width (4 cm, ca 232 warp ends), but mainly the combination of its weaving techniques. Whereas the lateral parts clearly show the structure of tablet weaving, the central part was woven in tabby, probably double layered. (To know this for sure, seeing the reverse would be necessary.) As the three parts are partly separated in the original band, it is generally believed that the tablet woven strips were additionally sewn to the central band which was woven in another technique. However, after seeing the photo of the band I have wondered about two things: 1) The gaps between the three parts do not separate tablet-woven trims and the central tabby piece, but they are placed inside the tablet-woven area, between the yellow warp...