Plaque with Agnus Dei and Four Evangelists, probably 9th century
German or North Italian
Ivory
9 1/4 x 5 3/8 in. (23.5 x 13.7 cm)
Gift of J. Pierpont Morgan, 1917 (17.190.38)
The writers of the four Gospels, which relate the story of Christ's life, were often symbolized by animals. Winged creaturees stood for Matthew, a lion for Mark, an ox for Luke, and an eagle for John. These symbols were based upon the vision of Saint John in the Book of Revelation (4:6–7). On this ivory plaque, the animal symbols, holding their Gospels, are arranged around the cross. At the center appears the Lamb of God, a symbol of Christ. Originally, this plaque would have decorated the cover of an Evangiliary, a manuscript containing all four Gospels.
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