Votive Censer

Unknown

19th or 20th century (6th–7th century style) · Gold, pearls, and emeralds · Medieval Art

The charming small gold "censer" is one of a group of works made for the antiquarian market in the 1960’s that were later recognized as problematic due to structural details, including the use of drawn, not twisted, gold wire. Study of the censer and its related works will encourage a better understanding of medieval technology and recognition of how Syrian East Christian art was misidentified by some in the mid-twentieth century.

Artist

Unknown

Date

19th or 20th century (6th–7th century style)

Medium

Gold, pearls, and emeralds

Culture

Byzantine style

Department

Medieval Art

Credit line

Bequest of Mary Slusser, in memory of Dorothy Shepherd Payer, 2017