This tapestry was donated in 2004 by former Saint John’s resident Mary Mellowes, who acquired it while traveling. The tapestry was hand-woven with cotton and wool by students of Ramses Wissa Wassef. It depicts a rich, vibrant Egyptian nature scene. Wassef was an Egyptian architect and educator.

In 1951, Wassef embarked upon an experiment in creativity which became universally acclaimed. He set out to prove that creativity was innate—that anyone could produce art. He had become discouraged by the general decline of creativity in 20th century urban culture and dismayed by the deadening influence of mass production. Wassef established a weaving studio in Harrania, Egypt and taught a group of young children to weave. Wassef’s legacy lives on. Today the result of his vision is clear: a unique collection of tapestries that express the richness of Egyptian village life.

Egyptian tree of life tapestry. Handwoven tapestry of cotton and wool fibers; large tree with foliage cascading down; donkeys, birds and other animals surround.