Ivory cross (partim)

An episcopal insignia par excellence and symbolising the shepherd’s crook, this crosier belonged to Jacques de Vitry. The tip is a representation of a snake’s head, as was common at the time. In the centre is a sheep, symbolising Christ, carrying a straight-end cross on its back. Sicily has been attributed as the place of the work’s origin because the island was specialised in works of ivory during this period.

Ivory cross (partim)

Sicily
c.1216

Ivory
57 cm, 12 cm ø

Donated by the Sisters of Notre-Dame de Namur

Musée provincial des Arts anciens du Namurois-Trésor d'Oignies (TreM.a)
Inv. no. TO 30

 

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