Base of an Altar Cross with the Four Evangelists and Their Symbols

Unknown

ca. 1160 · Champlevé enamel, copper-gilt · Medieval Art

The base for the cross is decorated with images of the four evangelists, shown as they write the Gospels. Their symbols—angel, lion, ox, and eagle—appear to the right of each. Such crosses were common on altars in the eleventh and twelfth centuries, and elaborate examples became a specialty of goldsmiths working in the area of the Meuse Valley.

Artist

Unknown

Date

ca. 1160

Medium

Champlevé enamel, copper-gilt

Culture

South Netherlandish

Department

Medieval Art

Credit line

Gift of J. Pierpont Morgan, 1917