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Initial A with the Battle of the Maccabees

ca. 1360–70
Not on view
Medieval Christians considered the Maccabees, who regained the Temple in Jerusalem for Jewish worship, as early models for the Christian Crusaders, fighting to recapture the Holy City from Muslim control. This page illustrates a text that would have been sung during worship in a monastery. The Maccabees, dressed as medieval knights and carrying a banner marked "M," triumphantly rout the Greek army from the city.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Initial A with the Battle of the Maccabees
  • Date: ca. 1360–70
  • Geography: Made in probably Bologna, Italy
  • Culture: Italian
  • Medium: Tempera, gold, and ink on parchment
  • Dimensions: 8 1/16 x 5 15/16 in. (20.4 x 15.1 cm)
  • Classification: Manuscripts and Illuminations
  • Credit Line: Gift of Bashford Dean, 1923
  • Object Number: 23.21.4
  • Curatorial Department: Medieval Art and The Cloisters

Audio

Cover Image for 2851. Illuminated Initial N: Battle Scene

2851. Illuminated Initial N: Battle Scene

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