Double-Faced Enkolpion
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Byzantine, late 11th-early 12th century
Gold and cloisonné enamel
H. 1 1/4 in. (3.3 cm)
The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, N.Y. (1994.403)
An enkolpion is a devotional pendant or medallion meant to be worn around the neck. One face of this pendant bears an image of Christ and the other that of the Virgin. The image of Christ is set against a gold background. He holds a book in his left hand and raises his right in blessing. His depiction is akin to that of the Pantokrator visible on the central dome of Middle Byzantine churches. The inscription on the lobes reads, in Greek, "Jesus Christ King of Glory." The Virgin on the reverse is shown in a three-quarter pose against a light blue background. At one time either the hand of God or the dove of the Holy Spirit occupied the upper right corner. The green lobes, the light blue sky, and the sign of God's presence from above help to emphasize that she is of our earthly domain. By contrast, the gold on the other face alludes to the splendor of the heavenly realm.
The Virgin extends her arms in prayer in the same direction as her glance. Notice that Christ's eyes gaze sideways in the opposite direction. In this manner a dialogue is established between the two figures. The Virgin implores her son on behalf of the wearer of the pendant. The inscription on the green lobes reads "Mother of God," as if confirming her credentials for her role as mankind's intercessor.
This pendant is decorated with cloisonné enamel, a technique that may have been invented in Byzantium. A few original cloisons can be seen on the Virgin's side, in the upper right corner, where the enamel has been lost. Enameling both faces of a thin sheet of gold foil, as was done here, is a feat requiring exceptional technical skill.
Classroom Hints:
Notice: materials, expression, gestures, colors
Discuss: identity, writing, symbols, repetitions, lines, direction of the eyes, function
Compare: Constantine I; Saint George from a Set of Medallions
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Double-Faced Enkolpion