Plaque with Marking of the Door with the Letter Tau

Art Historical Context

This exquisite champlevé enamel plaque, around 1200 in Germany, a pivotal biblical moment from the Book of Ezekiel the marking of doors with the Greek letter tau (Τ), a T-shaped symbol resembling a cross. Depicting men applying this emblem—likely as a sign of divine protection amid judgment—the artwork evokes themes of salvation and mercy central to medieval Christian devotion. compact size (just over 2½ by 3 inches) suggests it adorned a portable object, such as a book cover, reliquary, or altar piece, making faith intimate and ever-present. The mastery of champlevé technique shines here: ar...