Châsse (shrine) of the Magi, Cl. 23822 © GrandPalaisRmn / Jean-Gilles Berizzi

Châsse (shrine) of the Magi, Cl. 23822 © GrandPalaisRmn / Jean-Gilles Berizzi

Châsse (shrine) of the Magi, Cl. 23822 © GrandPalaisRmn / Jean-Gilles Berizzi

Châsse (shrine) of the Magi, Cl. 23822 © GrandPalaisRmn / Jean-Gilles Berizzi

Châsse (shrine) of the Magi, Cl. 23822 (detail) © GrandPalaisRmn / Jean-Gilles Berizzi

Châsse (shrine) of the Magi, Cl. 23822 (detail) © GrandPalaisRmn / Jean-Gilles Berizzi

Châsse (shrine) of the Magi

Description

On display - room 6

12th century - 13th century

High Middle Ages

This casket was intended to hold relics. It is a wonderful example of the creations by artists from Limoges, at the height of their art.

Its iconography makes it a rare, evocative and refined piece, the enamel, craftsmanship is precious and luminous, resulting in striking vibrancy. On the roof, the magi and horses in gilded copper, engraved and chiselled, with applied heads in half-relief, seem to be engaged in a lively race; on the side, their procession in front of the Virgin and the Child is calm and majestic.

Former F. Spitzer collection

A work of major cultural heritage significance, acquired in 2006 through the patronage of CNP Assurances, requested by the Friends of the Musée de Cluny.
 

From one artwork to another

Head of the king of Judah No. 6, Notre-Dame de Paris, Cl. 22988 © GrandPalaisRmn / René-Gabriel Ojeda

Heads of the kings of Judah

First half of the 13th century