Masterpieces

Enamel and engraved metal plaque: Christ in Majesty surrounded by an angel and winged animals. Front view.

Christ in majesty, bookbinding plate, Cl. 13070 © GrandPalaisRmn / Thierry Ollivier

Christ in majesty

Bookbinding plate

Description

On display - room 6

12th century

High Middle Ages

This bookbinding plate represents a Christ in Majesty enthroned in the center of a mandorla and surrounded by the symbols of the four evangelists. A masterpiece of medieval enameling, it is characteristic of the Romanesque period. It is from a liturgical book whose geographic origin has not been precisely established (Spain or Limousin?) was produced towards the late 12th century.

Surrounded by four evangelists, Christ in majesty blesses with his right hand and holds the book in his left. This masterpiece of medieval enamelwork stands out for its layout, its colors and style, as well as its technique combining the use of champlevé enamel on copper and cloisonné enamel, with masterfully graphic and colorful results.

Its counterpart, depicting a Crucifixion, is held in Madrid (Museo Valencia de Don Juan).

Former F. Spitzer collection.

From one artwork to another

Sculpted and fragmented head depicting a man with curly beard wearing a hat. Front-facing stone sculpture.

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

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Twisted ivory object with an elongated and pointed shape. Front view.

Narwhal tusk, Cl. 20202 © GrandPalaisRmn / Gérard Blot

Narwhal tusk

Before the 15th century