Crozier Head with Double Enthroned Christ

Unknown

ca. 1350–1375 · Elephant ivory with traces of modern paint and gilding · Medieval Art

Croziers, the principal emblems of the pastoral role of bishops, abbots, and abbesses, were often richly decorated with subjects appropriate to religious authority. The double depiction of Christ within the volute is unusual for the fourteenth century and may indicate modern, rather than medieval, manufacture. Below are the cardinal virtues: Justice with her scales, Fortitude with the lion, Temperance diluting wine with water, and Prudence with her lamp.

Artist

Unknown

Date

ca. 1350–1375

Medium

Elephant ivory with traces of modern paint and gilding

Culture

Italian

Department

Medieval Art

Credit line

Gift of J. Pierpont Morgan, 1917