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Head of the Crozier of Bishop Johannes I

German (Hildesheim (?))

ca. 1257–60

Not on view

This snakelike crozier head, a traditional symbol of pastoral office for bishops and abbots, was found beneath the floor of the nave of Hildesheim Cathedral in the grave of Bishop Johannes I (r. 1257–60) in 1953. The form of a serpent not only lends itself to the curled head of the staff but also references the brazen serpent Moses employed to heal the Israelites (Numbers 21:4–9). The shaft, most likely made of wood, is lost.

Head of the Crozier of Bishop Johannes I, Copper alloy, German (Hildesheim (?)) — Due to rights restrictions, this image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

Title: Head of the Crozier of Bishop Johannes I

Date: ca. 1257–60

Culture: German (Hildesheim (?))

Medium: Copper alloy

Dimensions: Height with pin: 7 11/16 in. (19.5 cm); Width: 3 9/16 in. (9 cm)

Classification: Metalwork-Copper alloy

Credit Line: Dom-Museum HIldesheim (D 1978–44)

Accession Number: SL.5.2013.1.35

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Medieval Art and The Cloisters at The Met

The Museum's collection of medieval and Byzantine art is among the most comprehensive in the world, encompassing the art of the Mediterranean and Europe from the fall of Rome to the beginning of the Renaissance.