Ivories of the So-Called Grado Chair: Nativity of Christ
Returned to lender
This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.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.
On this plaque, the Nativity is set before the walls of an elaborate city, possibly Bethlehem. The Christ child’s manger resembles an altar.
Artwork Details
- 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)
- Curatorial Department: Medieval Art and The Cloisters