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Relief of the Holy Family

ca. 1160–80
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 304
This exquisite carving, probably originally from a portable altar, is one of the most intimate and sensitive carvings of the Romanesque style in Europe. Here Joseph tenderly embraces Mary and the infant Jesus who are enthroned upon an ass. Rich in symbolism, this ivory has been linked artistically to both England and northern France.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Relief of the Holy Family
  • Date: ca. 1160–80
  • Culture: British or North French
  • Medium: Elephant ivory
  • Dimensions: Overall: 3 3/16 x 1 1/2 x 1/2 in. (8.1 x 3.8 x 1.3 cm)
  • Classification: Ivories-Elephant
  • Credit Line: Dodge Fund, 1940
  • Object Number: 40.62
  • Curatorial Department: Medieval Art and The Cloisters

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Standing man representing a statue, Master of the Martyrdom of St. Sebastian Austrian, Ivory, Austrian
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Game Piece with a Scene from the Life of Apollonius of Tyre, Walrus ivory, German
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