Artwork Page for Ivory Pyx (Box)

Details / Information for Ivory Pyx (Box)

Ivory Pyx (Box)

500s

Byzantium

Medium
ivory
Measurements
Diameter: 12.7 cm (5 in.); Overall: 8.5 cm (3 3/8 in.)
Credit Line
Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund 1951.114
Public Domain
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Location
105 Byzantine
Print

Description

Elaborately carved from a section of an elephant’s tusk, this ivory pyx (Greek for "box") depicts a number of New Testament scenes, namely the Annunciation, Christ’s entry into Jerusalem, Christ raising Lazarus, and Christ healing the blind man. It also depicts a Christian altar with chalices, possibly indicating the box’s use in a liturgical context.
A cylindrical ivory pyx features relief carvings of figures in long, draped garments. To the left, three figures stand together. The central section contains a rectangular panel with holes above a carved cross. To the right, a winged angel stands before a figure seated on a stool with crossed legs. The aged, tan surface is marked by small holes and cracks, with irregular edges along the top and bottom.

Ivory Pyx (Box)

500s

Byzantium

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