Tabernacle of Cherves

Unknown

ca. 1220–1230 · Copper (plaques): engraved, scraped, stippled, and gilt; (appliqués): repoussé, chased, engraved, scraped, and gilt; champlevé enamel: medium blue, turquoise, medium green, yellow, red, and white, modern wood mount · Medieval Art

This tabernacle is the most celebrated object from the Treasure of Cherves, found in 1896 near the site of a ruined priory of the Grandmont order of monks in Gandory. The accomplished openwork medallions depict events following the Crucifixion, including the Holy Women at the Sepulchre on Easter Sunday (center left) and Doubting Thomas (upper right). With their strong emphasis on the physical presence of Christ after his death, these images were most appropriate for a cupboard intended for storing of the bread consecrated as Christ’s body during the mass.

Artist

Unknown

Date

ca. 1220–1230

Medium

Copper (plaques): engraved, scraped, stippled, and gilt; (appliqués): repoussé, chased, engraved, scraped, and gilt; champlevé enamel: medium blue, turquoise, medium green, yellow, red, and white, modern wood mount

Culture

French

Department

Medieval Art

Credit line

Gift of J. Pierpont Morgan, 1917