Artwork Page for Plaque from a Reliquary Shrine

Details / Information for Plaque from a Reliquary Shrine

Plaque from a Reliquary Shrine

c. 1180–1190

Germany, Rhine Valley, Cologne, Romanesque period, 12th century

Medium
gilded copper; champlevé and cloisonné enamel
Measurements
Overall: 3.2 x 6.6 cm (1 1/4 x 2 5/8 in.)
Credit Line
Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund 1953.638
Public Domain
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Location
106C Medieval Treasury
Print

Description

These decorative enamel plaques (1953.274, 1953.638, 1957.502, and 1961.27) have been linked to some of Cologne's most important reliquary shrines, namely the shrine of the Three Kings at Cologne Cathedral and the shrines of Saints Maurinus and Albinus in the Benedictine abbey church of Saint Panteleon.
A horizontal gilded copper and enamel plaque features symmetrical, curving foliate patterns in turquoise, deep blue, green, and white mirroring a central red circle. Fine gold strips separate the glass sections against a gilded ground. Textured, beaded borders edge the top and bottom. Four circular holes sit near the corners, though the bottom right is partially broken. The composition highlights intricate, rhythmic motifs through vibrant colors and metallic detailing.

Plaque from a Reliquary Shrine

c. 1180–1190

Germany, Rhine Valley, Cologne, Romanesque period, 12th century

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