The Timeline of Art History   The Metropolitan Museum of Art
World MapsTimelines / RegionsThematic EssaysWorks of ArtIndex  
Star-Shaped Brooch with Intaglio, setting 960–1000, intaglio 337–361
Ottonian (setting), Byzantine (intaglio)
Gold with pearls and star sapphire; Diam. 1 7/8 in. (4.8 cm)
The Cloisters Collection, 1988 (1988.15)

This sumptuous object was created to preserve a rare gem carved with the likeness of one of Constantine's sons. The Ottonian emperors regarded themselves as the inheritors of the Christian Roman empire established by Constantine, and this piece was likely commissioned by a member of the Ottonian imperial family.

Open full-size image


    • Related Index Terms

    Art Movement/Style

    Material and Technique

    Object

    Technical Glossary



    Print
    Close
    Star-Shaped Brooch with Intaglio, setting 960–1000, intaglio 337–361
    Ottonian (setting), Byzantine (intaglio)
    Gold with pearls and star sapphire; Diam. 1 7/8 in. (4.8 cm)
    The Cloisters Collection, 1988 (1988.15)