Artwork Page for Plaque with Seated Prophet from a Reliquary Shrine: Heliseus (Elisha)

Details / Information for Plaque with Seated Prophet from a Reliquary Shrine: Heliseus (Elisha)

Plaque with Seated Prophet from a Reliquary Shrine: Heliseus (Elisha)

c. 1170–80
Measurements
Overall: 8.7 x 5.9 x 0.3 cm (3 7/16 x 2 5/16 x 1/8 in.)
Credit Line
Public Domain
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Description

Once used as decorations for a reliquary shrine, each enamel plaque represents a biblical prophet: Isaiah, Obadiah, Elisha, and Hosea. Fine gold dots punctuate dark blue backgrounds. Typical of Hildesheim enamels, this detailing creates the illusion that the prophets sit against star-studded twilight skies.
A gilded copper and enamel plaque depicts Heliseus, a bearded figure with wide eyes and a golden halo. He is seated on a tiered throne, holding a scroll inscribed "HELISEVS PROPHETA." He wears draped golden robes, his feet resting on a patterned footrest. The figure is set against a starry blue background within a green arched border. Fine engraved lines define his facial features and garment folds.

Plaque with Seated Prophet from a Reliquary Shrine: Heliseus (Elisha)

c. 1170–80

Germany, Lower Saxony, Hildesheim, Romanesque period, 12th century

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