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Triptych

Triptych
1850 (made)
Artist/Maker
Place of origin

This ivory triptych in a gothic style dates from the mid-19th century, and in subject and style recalls medieval English murals, such as those by Lambert Barnard in Chichester Cathedral. The skill with which the fantasy architecture and botanical details are carved imply it may have been produced by a German ivory carver working in Britain. But its exact authorship, origins and purpose remain unknown. Although it is in an archaic style it is unlikely to have been made as a fake, and was more likely valued as a historicising piece.


Object details

Categories
Object type
Parts
This object consists of 3 parts.

  • Ivory Triptych
  • Backboard
  • Backboard
TitleTriptych (generic title)
Materials and techniques
Ivory and wood with metal hinges.
Brief description
An ivory triptych mounted on wood in the Gothic style, probably dating from the mid-19th century.
Physical description
A hinged ivory triptych mounted on wood.
Dimensions
  • Height: 34cm
  • Width: 39cm
  • Depth: 12cm
Credit line
Private Collection
Object history
This object is on long term loan from a private collector.
Summary
This ivory triptych in a gothic style dates from the mid-19th century, and in subject and style recalls medieval English murals, such as those by Lambert Barnard in Chichester Cathedral. The skill with which the fantasy architecture and botanical details are carved imply it may have been produced by a German ivory carver working in Britain. But its exact authorship, origins and purpose remain unknown. Although it is in an archaic style it is unlikely to have been made as a fake, and was more likely valued as a historicising piece.
Collection
Accession number
LOAN:JOHN LEWIS.16-2014

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Record createdOctober 24, 2014
Record URL
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