Cameo with the Fasting of Saint Nicholas
In this rare scene from his infancy, Saint Nicholas refuses his mother’s milk. The image served as an exemplar for fasting and abstinence, especially for monastic communities. The relics of Saint Nicholas resided at Bari, in southern Italy, where the protection of this popular saint had wide appeal.
The court of Frederick II Hohenstaufen (r. 1215–50) actively promoted the creation and collection of works, such as these cameos, linking Frederick’s reign with the imperial past.
The court of Frederick II Hohenstaufen (r. 1215–50) actively promoted the creation and collection of works, such as these cameos, linking Frederick’s reign with the imperial past.
Artwork Details
- Title: Cameo with the Fasting of Saint Nicholas
- Date: ca. 1200–1250
- Culture: South Italian
- Medium: Agate with gold frame
- Dimensions: Overall (without mount): 15/16 x 11/16 x 1/4 in. (2.4 x 1.8 x 0.6 cm)
Overall (with mount): 1 3/16 x 11/16 x 1/4 in. (3 x 1.8 x 0.6 cm) - Classification: Lapidary Work-Agate
- Credit Line: Rogers Fund, 2000
- Object Number: 2000.347
- Curatorial Department: Medieval Art and The Cloisters
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North Italian
14th century
South Italian
ca. 1220–40
Nicolaus Ranucius (Ranierius) and His Sons, Johannes and Guittone
ca. 1150
Italian
14th century
North Italian
ca. 1325–75
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