On loan to The Met The Met accepts temporary loans of art both for short-term exhibitions and for long-term display in its galleries.
Church Model (Acroterion)
Not on view
This church model, attached to a roof tile, is a remarkable example of an artistic tradition unique to the South Caucasus: church-shaped roof ornaments, called acroteria, installed atop buildings. The Bardzrak‘ash example is exceptional for its specificity: the carver has added noteworthy details, including separate projecting gables crowning each facade, window moldings on the main elevation and the drum, and roof tiles that mimic the radiating ribs seen on monumental churches. The carved relief decoration on the tile includes pitchers, a motif commonly found on Armenian bas-reliefs and perhaps liturgical in significance.
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This artwork is meant to be viewed from right to left. Scroll left to view more.
