Portable Altar

second half 12th century with later repairs

Not on view

Returned to lender

This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.

This small altar was used to take Mass to those unable to attend church. Eucharistic vessels containing wine and bread were placed upon the serpentine surface, which is surrounded by engravings of saints related to Hildesheim Cathedral, including its bishops Bernward and Godehard. The engravings are later additions that probably imitate the original program. The ivory busts on the sides depict Christ with Saints Peter and Paul, eight apostles, and Mary with two angels and two holy virgins.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Exhibition History

Title: Portable Altar
Date: second half 12th century with later repairs
Culture: German (Hildesheim)
Medium: Serpentine, walrus ivory, champlevé enamel, and gilded copper; wood core
Dimensions: Overall: 2 7/8 x 9 13/16 x 5 11/16 in. (7.3 x 25 x 14.5 cm)
Classification: Metalwork-Silver
Credit Line: Dom-Museum Hildesheim (DS 25)
Curatorial Department: Medieval Art and The Cloisters