Text, Christian imagery

Mandorla of Christ with solar disc on his head. 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 Hampsh