Medieval · Cleveland Museum of Art · 1962.29
Enthroned Virgin and Child
Unknown maker, 1225–50
Cleveland Museum of Art · Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund · Public domain
- Artist
- Unknown maker
- Date
- 1225–50
- Medium
- copper: repoussé, gilded, engraved, chased; black glass beads; light turquoise enameled pearls
- Dimensions
- Overall: 21.9 x 10.6 x 3.8 cm (8 5/8 x 4 3/16 x 1 1/2 in.)
- Era
- Medieval
Why it matters
Both the Virgin and the Christ child are lavishly attired. Their mantle hems are engraved to create the illusion of being fur-lined, and turquoise enamel beads create "pearl"-studded decorative bands on the Virgin’s wrist, knee, and crown and on Christ’s collar. The similarity of their garments emphasizes the close relationship between the mother and child and their joint rule over the kingdom of heaven. Once part of a larger ensemble, this relief may have decorated an altar frontal, devotional tabernacle, or reliquary.