Evangelist Saint Mark writing the Gospel with his symbol, the Lion, holding a scroll

Art Historical Context

This exquisite 11th-century ivory from Germany captures Evangelist Saint Mark his desk, diligently writing his Gospel, accompanied by his traditional symbol: a majestic lion clutching a scroll. The intimate scale—measuring just 5½ x 4¼ inches—invites close contemplation, revealing the saint's focused expression and flowing robes rendered with remarkable precision on such a delicate medium. Crafted during the height of the Ottonian Renaissance in medieval Europe, this plaque exemplifies the era's devotion to the four Evangelists, whose symbols adorned liturgical books, altars, and personal rel...