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Ivories of the So-Called Grado Chair: Prophet with a Plaque

late 7th or 8th century

Not on view

The original use and arrangement of these fourteen ivories of the So-called Grado Chair with scenes from the life of Christ, depictions of saints, and of Saint Mark as first bishop of Alexandria remain uncertain. They may have been part of a liturgical throne given by Emperor Heraclius (r. 610–41) to Grado, Italy, after his successful re-conquest of Egypt.
Against an elaborate cityscape, an unidentified prophet points to heaven, the source of his inspiration. His bare feet and pose are reminiscent of images of Moses receiving the Commandments.

Ivories of the So-Called Grado Chair: Prophet with a Plaque, Ivory, carved — This image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

Title: Ivories of the So-Called Grado Chair: Prophet with a Plaque

Date: late 7th or 8th century

Geography: Made in Eastern Mediterranean or Egypt

Medium: Ivory, carved

Dimensions: Overall: 3 9/16 x 3 1/8 x 5/16 in. (9 x 8 x 0.8 cm)

Classification: Ivories

Object Number: isl721

The Met

Medieval Art and The Cloisters at The Met

The Museum's collection of medieval and Byzantine art is among the most comprehensive in the world, encompassing the art of the Mediterranean and Europe from the fall of Rome to the beginning of the Renaissance.