The Lion of Saint Mark (one of two appliqués from a book cover)
Unknown Artist
ca. 1200–1225
Medium
Copper: repoussé, engraved, chased, and gilt, champlevé enamel
Dimensions
Overall: 3 15/16 x 3 1/8 x 7/16 in. (10 x 8 x 1.1 cm)
Classification
Enamels-Champlevé
Culture
French
Department
Medieval Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
The Friedsam Collection, Bequest of Michael Friedsam, 1931
Accession Number
32.100.291
Art Historical Context
Behold the majestic *Lion of Saint Mark*, of two exquisite appliqués that once adorned a luxurious book cover from medieval France, crafted around 1200–1225. This small yet powerful copper plaque (just under 4 inches wide) captures the winged lion, the traditional symbol of the Evangelist Saint Mark, featured on Gospel books to signify his Gospel's themes of strength and resurrection. Produced during the early Gothic period, it reflects the era's devotion to ornate religious artifacts, blending artistry with spirituality for ecclesiastical treasures. The artwork showcases virtuoso metalworkin...