The Holy Trinity thumbnail 1
The Holy Trinity thumbnail 2
Not currently on display at the V&A

The Holy Trinity

Relief
ca. 1700 - 1720 (made)
Artist/Maker
Place of origin

Ivory was popular as a material for religious subjects, especially during the 17th and 18th centuries. Spanish and Portuguese patrons imported ivories carved with Christian imagery from their territories overseas, such as the Philippines, Mexico and Goa. German and Netherlandish artists were renowned for their dexterity in ivory carving. Their reliefs are masterpieces of composition and virtuosity.
This relief representing the Holy Trinity was probably made in Germany, ca. 1700-1720. It may well be based on an engraved source, and was probably fixed to a house-altar or box.


Object details

Categories
Object type
TitleThe Holy Trinity (generic title)
Materials and techniques
Ivory relief
Brief description
Relief, ivory, The Holy Trinity, probably German, ca. 1700-1720
Physical description
On a base of clouds Christ sits on the left holding his cross, pointing to the earth with his left hand and on the right God the Father is seated and with right hand gesturing to his son. Descending from a cloud in the centre the Holy Spirit in the form of a dove. The globe is at their feet. and they are surrounded by clouds.
Dimensions
  • Width: 9.7cm
  • Height: 6.5cm
Object history
Given by Dr. W. L. Hildburgh, F. S. A.; formerly on loan from Dr Hildburgh.
Subjects depicted
Summary
Ivory was popular as a material for religious subjects, especially during the 17th and 18th centuries. Spanish and Portuguese patrons imported ivories carved with Christian imagery from their territories overseas, such as the Philippines, Mexico and Goa. German and Netherlandish artists were renowned for their dexterity in ivory carving. Their reliefs are masterpieces of composition and virtuosity.
This relief representing the Holy Trinity was probably made in Germany, ca. 1700-1720. It may well be based on an engraved source, and was probably fixed to a house-altar or box.
Bibliographic reference
Trusted, Marjorie, Baroque & Later Ivories, Victoria & Albert Museum, London, 2013, cat. no. 91
Collection
Accession number
A.51-1949

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Record createdJune 24, 2009
Record URL
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