Pyxis with Vine Scrolls
Returned to lender
This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.Indicative of social status, these three circular, bellied-shape ivory boxes were luxury objects produced for the elite. Each is decorated with vine scrolls springing from pots, a Byzantine motif drawn from the world of the classical god Dionysos that was also popular during the early Islamic period.
This box, densely covered with vine scrolls growing from pots, would have been acceptable to any community living in the eastern Mediterranean.
This box, densely covered with vine scrolls growing from pots, would have been acceptable to any community living in the eastern Mediterranean.
Artwork Details
- Title: Pyxis with Vine Scrolls
- Date: 7th–8th century
- Geography: Made in Syria (?)
- Medium: Ivory; metal rim around lid added later
- Dimensions: H: 3 3/4 in. (9.5 cm); diam: 3 9/16 in. (9 cm)
- Classification: Ivories
- Credit Line: Stiftung Preußischer Kulturbesitz, Staatliche Museen zu Berlin—Skulpturensammlung und Museum für Byzantinische Kunst, Berlin (2977)
- Curatorial Department: Medieval Art and The Cloisters