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Plaque Decorated with Vine Scroll, Birds, and a Rabbit

8th century
Not on view
Returned to lender
This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.
Carvings on ivory or bone were often used in the eastern Mediterranean as attachments for furniture and other objects. These plaques, which vary in style, reflect the continuation of Byzantine vine patterns into the early Islamic era. Most are carved on a vertical axis and are at times inhabited by animals. On this plaque, drill holes decorate the flowers, grape clusters, and birds, encouraging the play of light and shadow over the surface.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Plaque Decorated with Vine Scroll, Birds, and a Rabbit
  • Date: 8th century
  • Geography: Made in Egypt or Syria
  • Medium: Carved ivory
  • Dimensions: 5 7/8 x 2 3/4 in. (15 x 7 cm)
  • Classification: Ivories
  • Credit Line: Benaki Museum, Athens (10411)
  • Curatorial Department: Medieval Art and The Cloisters