Plate, Woman Holding Bird and Inscription

Art Historical Context

This exquisite 15th-century brass, hailing from the Netherlands, showcases the refined metalworking traditions of the Late Medieval period. Measuring 16 x 1¾ inches, it features a graceful woman holding a bird, accompanied by an inscription—likely a poetic or moral motto common in Netherlandish decorative arts. Crafted by an unknown artist, the piece exemplifies the era's skilled brass repoussé and engraving techniques, where thin sheets of metal were hammered and incised to create intricate, low-relief designs that catch the light beautifully. In the prosperous Low Countries, brass objects like this were prized for both domestic and ecclesiastical settings, reflecting the region's booming trade in luxury goods. The woman and bird motif evokes themes of love, fidelity, or falconry—a noble pastime symbolizing grace and status—while the inscription adds a layer of personal or didactic meaning. Such plates highlight the artistic fusion of utility and symbolism in medieval Europe. Today, this rare Netherlandish treasure resides in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Medieval Art collection, a gift from Irwin Untermyer in 1974. It invites us to ponder the daily lives and aspirations of 15th-century artisans and their patrons.