Matrices

Unknown

1220–72 · Lithographic limestone · Medieval Art

The European-style matrices carved on this stone are thought to have been used for the decoration of Crusader gear made of hardened leather (cuir-boille) or gesso. They may have decorated ailettes, small shields worn on the shoulders by Crusaders. The two elegant fish are mullet, Mullus barbatus.

Artist

Unknown

Date

1220–72

Medium

Lithographic limestone

Culture

German

Department

Medieval Art

Credit line

Gift of Clarence H. Mackay, Archer M. Huntington, Stephen H. P. Pell and Bashford Dean, 1928