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Portable Altar

early 12th century

Not on view

This portable altar is one of ten brightly colored enamel examples that are thought to have been made in the same workshop in northern Germany. While the christological scenes depicted on the ten related works are similar, the decorative scheme on the lid of this portable altar is unique. It combines geometric figures with stylized floral and animal ornaments that recall early medieval motifs.

Portable Altar, Copper with gilding and champlevé enamels, mounted on a modern copper casket, North German — This image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

Title: Portable Altar

Date: early 12th century

Culture: North German

Medium: Copper with gilding and champlevé enamels, mounted on a modern copper casket

Dimensions: Overall: 3 3/4 x 8 7/16 x 3 3/4 in. (9.5 x 21.5 x 9.5 cm)

Classification: Metalwork-Copper alloy

Credit Line: Dom-Museum Hildesheim (DS 21)

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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.