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Portable Altar

German (Hildesheim)

second half 12th century with later repairs

Not on view

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.

Portable Altar, Serpentine, walrus ivory, champlevé enamel, and gilded copper; wood core, German (Hildesheim) — This image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

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)

The Met

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.