Two carved ivory plaquettes depicting Adam and Eve in profile, nude, concealed by a vine leaf. Front view.

Adam and Eve, ornamental plaque for a piece of furniture and casket plates, Cl. 8681 and Cl. 8682 © GrandPalaisRmn / Jean-Gilles Berizzi

3D

3D

Adam and Eve

Ornamental plaque for a piece of furniture and casket plates

Description

On display - room 2

9th century - 10th century

Early Middle Ages

On one plaque, Adam raises his right hand; on the other, Eve is about to grasp the fruit of knowledge. These plaques depict the theme of original sin. Traces of ancient fastenings indicate that they were likely part of a casket, probably dedicated to the cycle of Genesis.

Both plaques were produced in Byzantium. The Greek letters indicating the figures, their hieratic posture and the styling of the whole enable a date around the year 1000 to be put forward.
 

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

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