Pendant Triptych with an Onyx Cameo of the Nativity

c. 1460–1500; cameo: c. 1250–1300

Pendant: France, Paris or Tours; Cameo: Italy, 13th-15th century

Medium

basse-taille enamel on gold; onyx cameo

Measurements

Overall: 5.8 x 2 cm (2 5/16 x 13/16 in.); Part 1: 4.5 x 3.5 cm (1 3/4 x 1 3/8 in.)

Credit Line

Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund 1947.508

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Location

110B Late Gothic

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Description

This pendant consists of colorful translucent enamel over an incised gold ground, a technique known as basse-taille, which simulates stained glass. For its owner this pendant was both for private devotion and a deluxe accessory. Made to be worn around the neck or suspended on a bed curtain, the pendant is shaped as a miniature triptych (three-panel painting) with wings or shutters that could be opened and closed. The outer surfaces are decorated with two prophets. The remaining images include various scenes from the life of Christ.

Small objects played a key role in private piety. Within this domain of personal spirituality, images were used to venerate and invoke Christ and his saints, as well as to meditate on the most important mysteries of faith or events from the story of salvation. Pious men and women began outfitting rooms in their homes where "one can pray well." Small portable deluxe objects such as ivories, enamel plaques, and jeweled pendants were critical ingredients in this experience of faith.