Plaque with the Virgin Mary as a Personification of the Church

Art Historical Context

This exquisite ivory plaque, carved around 800–825 during the Carolingian era depicts the Virgin Mary as personification of the Church profound theological symbol linking the divine mother to the body of Christendom. Created in the heart of Charlemagne's empire, it exemplifies the Carolingian Renaissance, a revival that blended classical Roman techniques with Christian iconography, fostering a golden age of monastic artistry in places like Aachen and Reims. Crafted from elephant ivory, a prized medium for its creamy luster and fine carvability, the plaque measures a compact 8 11/16 x 5 11/16 ...