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Anglo-Saxon Christian imagery, crucifix, disc on cross

European Museums, The British Museum

Anglo-Saxon Christian imagery crucifix

Christian imagery

Christian imagery grew popular in Anglo-Saxon art as the faith developed. Holy figures, sacred motifs and scenes from Christ's life were typical themes. The ivory plaques show Christ in Majesty, his Baptism and Cucifixion, while the gold and silver plaques depict haloed saints. A Latin inscription on the gold one identifies the eagle-headed figure as Sint John the Evangelist, whose symbol was an eagle.

The tiny disc inlaid with jewel-like enamel shows the Hand of God, a significant Christian motif. The plaques and disc perhaps decorated book covers or reliquaries, while the pendant shaped like the Christian cross was a piece of personal jewelry.

A.D. 900s - 1000s. Purchased with a contribution from The Art Fund and Pilgrim Trust, 1974,1002.1. Lewes Priory, East Sussex, 1887,1025.14. 1991, 0401.1. Brandon, Suffolk, 1978,1101.1. Hexham, Northumberland, donated by Reverend Frederick George Lee, 1858,0814.1. Possibly Hampshire, 2007,8049.1. Gravesend, Kent, 1839,0319.1

Supplementary images:

Anglo-Saxon Christian imagery crucifix
Taken on  Monday 17th of August 2015
Device: OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP.
Model: SP800UZ
Genre:  900 - 1000 A.D.
Source:  London, United Kingdom
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