Base of an Altar Cross with the Four Evangelists and Their Symbols
The base for the cross is decorated with images of the four evangelists, shown as they write the Gospels. Their symbols—angel, lion, ox, and eagle—appear to the right of each. Such crosses were common on altars in the eleventh and twelfth centuries, and elaborate examples became a specialty of goldsmiths working in the area of the Meuse Valley.
Artwork Details
- Title: Base of an Altar Cross with the Four Evangelists and Their Symbols
- Date: ca. 1160
- Geography: Made in Meuse Valley, Netherlands
- Culture: South Netherlandish
- Medium: Champlevé enamel, copper-gilt
- Dimensions: Overall: 2 5/8 x 5 7/8 in. (6.7 x 14.9 cm)
- Classification: Enamels-Champlevé
- Credit Line: Gift of J. Pierpont Morgan, 1917
- Object Number: 17.190.341a
- Curatorial Department: Medieval Art and The Cloisters
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South Netherlandish
ca. 1150–75
French
ca. 1150
French
ca. 1220–1230
South Netherlandish
ca. 1150–75
South Netherlandish
ca. 1165
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