Cameo with the Fasting of Saint Nicholas

Unknown

ca. 1200–1250 · Agate with gold frame · Medieval Art

In this rare scene from his infancy, Saint Nicholas refuses his mother’s milk. The image served as an exemplar for fasting and abstinence, especially for monastic communities. The relics of Saint Nicholas resided at Bari, in southern Italy, where the protection of this popular saint had wide appeal. The court of Frederick II Hohenstaufen (r. 1215–50) actively promoted the creation and collection of works, such as these cameos, linking Frederick’s reign with the imperial past.

Artist

Unknown

Date

ca. 1200–1250

Medium

Agate with gold frame

Culture

South Italian

Department

Medieval Art

Credit line

Rogers Fund, 2000