Temple Pendant with Two Birds Flanking a Tree of Life (front) and Geometric Lead Motifs (back)

Date: ca. 1000–1200

Culture: Kievan Rus

Medium: Gold, silver, and enamel worked in cloisonné

Dimensions: Overall: 2 1/16 x 1 15/16 x 9/16 in. (5.3 x 5 x 1.5 cm)

Classification: Enamels-Cloisonné

Credit Line: Gift of J. Pierpont Morgan, 1917

Accession Number: 17.190.679

Description

This circular object known as a temple pendant attests to the wealth and sophistication of medieval Kievan patrons. Fine cloisonné enamelwork adorned each of a pair suspended beside the face as part of the elaborate headdress of a Rus' woman.

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