Pendant Triptych with an Onyx Cameo of the Nativity
Unknown Artist
c. 1460–1500; cameo: c. 1250–1300
Medium
basse-taille enamel on gold; onyx cameo
Dimensions
5.8 × 2 cm · part 1: 4.5 × 3.5 cm
Classification
Enamel
Department
Medieval Art
Museum
Cleveland Museum of Art
Credit
Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund
Accession Number
1947.508
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
This pendant consists of colorful translucent enamel over an incised gold ground, a technique known as basse-taille, which simulates stained glass. For its owner this pendant was both for private devotion and a deluxe accessory. Made to be worn around the neck or suspended on a bed curtain, the pendant is shaped as a miniature triptych (three-panel painting) with wings or shutters that could be opened and closed. The outer surfaces are decorated with two prophets. The remaining images include va...