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The Attarouthi Treasure - Silver Dove

500–650
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 300
The dove, with wings spread and feet tucked up as if in flight, represents the Holy Spirit that appeared over the head of Christ as he was baptized by Saint John the Forerunner (John 1:32). Early authors mention the presence of doves over altars in churches from Constantinople to Tours in France. This is the earliest known example of the type. Originally a small cross hung from the loop in its beak.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: The Attarouthi Treasure - Silver Dove
  • Date: 500–650
  • Geography: Made in Attarouthi, Syria
  • Culture: Byzantine
  • Medium: Silver
  • Dimensions: Overall (with wings): 3 5/8 x 6 1/4 x 2 11/16 in. (9.2 x 15.8 x 6.8 cm)
    Overall (Body only): 2 7/16 x 2 7/16 x 6 1/4 in. (6.2 x 6.2 x 15.8 cm)
  • Classification: Metalwork-Silver
  • Credit Line: Purchase, Rogers Fund and Henry J. and Drue E. Heinz Foundation, Norbert Schimmel, and Lila Acheson Wallace Gifts, 1986
  • Object Number: 1986.3.15
  • Curatorial Department: Medieval Art and The Cloisters

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