Carved ivory plaque: nimbed man standing, left hand on his chest, head turned to the left, framed by vegetal motifs. Front view.

Bookbinding plate, Apostle, Cl. 393 © GrandPalaisRmn / Thierry Ollivier

Bookbinding plate: Apostle

Description

On display - room 2

9th century

Early Middle Ages

This plate depicts a haloed figure, dressed in a toga and holding a scroll. Identified as an apostle, he bends his knees slightly and places a hand on his chest, as disciples often do when greeting Christ. The frieze around the character is adorned with thick acanthus, featuring regular holes where precious inlays should have been found.

It is likely that this representation faithfully reproduces an ancient sculpture. The round, flat forms depicted under the apostle's feet could be a misinterpretation of ancient sandals. Through this amusing detail, this plate is evidence of the production methods of Carolingian ivory art.

 

From one artwork to another

Carved ivory plaque depicting a Crucifixion scene surrounded by historical scenes. Front view.

Bookbinding plate, Crucifixion, Holy Women at the Tomb, Ascension and Christ Blessing, Cl. 13064 © GrandPalaisRmn / Michel Urtado

Bookbinding plate

11th century

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Round ivory plaque carved with a couple and a hooded, bearded figure. Frontal view.

Mirror case cover: Tristan and Isolde meeting Ogrin the Hermit, Cl. 383 © GrandPalaisRmn / Thierry Ollivier

Mirror case cover

14th century