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Ivories of the So-Called Grado Chair: Nativity of Christ

7th–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.
On this plaque, the Nativity is set before the walls of an elaborate city, possibly Bethlehem. The Christ child’s manger resembles an altar.

Ivories of the So-Called Grado Chair: Nativity of Christ, Ivory — This image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

Title: Ivories of the So-Called Grado Chair: Nativity of Christ

Date: 7th–8th century

Geography: Made in Eastern Mediterranean or Egypt

Medium: Ivory

Dimensions: 3 11/16 x 7 1/2 in. (9.3 x 19.1 cm)

Classification: Ivories

Credit Line: Byzantine Collection, Dumbarton Oaks, Washington, D.C. (BZ.1951.30)

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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.