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Pair of Altar Candlesticks

ca. 1160

Not on view

Unusual and complex iconography distinguishes these candlesticks. On one are personifications of the continents, each holding a fragment of the disk representing Earth and a second attribute: Europa is armed with a sword and shield (war); Asia bears a receptacle representing wealth; Africa holds the book of science. The figures on the other candlestick bear allegories of medicine (a vase), conflict (two fighting snakes), and theory and practice (two busts of young men). The allegories may collectively evoke the totality of the universe.

Pair of Altar Candlesticks, Cast copper alloy, engraved, chiseled, and gilded, with niello (?) and traces of silver, Mosan region — Due to rights restrictions, this image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

Title: Pair of Altar Candlesticks

Date: ca. 1160

Culture: Mosan region

Medium: Cast copper alloy, engraved, chiseled, and gilded, with niello (?) and traces of silver

Dimensions: Height each: 9 7/16 in. (24 cm)

Classification: Metalwork-Copper alloy

Credit Line: Dom-Museum Hildesheim (DS 22a–b)

Accession Number: SL.5.2013.1.38, .39

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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.