Ethiopia, Central and Northern Highlands, Amhara or Tigrinya peoples, early 18th Century CE. Carved wood, tempera, pigment. In this period, Ethiopian artists were increasingly exposed to forms of expression from Europe and double-sided diptychs became popular among the nobility as pendant icons worn suspended by a cord around the neck. The subject matter depicted on this example is a standard program for this genre of personal icon, as are the intricately carved cruciform designs that enhance the exterior surfaces of the protective covers. This icon contains two painted surfaces depicting Christian subject matter. On one side of the main panel, the Virgin Mary appears seated, holding Christ and flanked by archangels carrying swords. Grasping the Book of the Gospel and making a gesture of benediction, the Christ Child gazes lovingly at his mother, who in turn stares out toward the viewer. On the outer panel (the interior surface of the cover), Saint George appears on horseback slaying the dragon. This combination of saints was extremely popular in Ethiopian religious painting, and served to emphasize the close relationship between the Virgin Mary and Saint George, the soldier of God who was her constant companion. Size: 3-3/4"H x 2-3/4"W (9.5 cm x 7 cm).

Provenance: Ex-Historia Antiques, Santa Monica, CA.

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#109670

String that once held both pieces together now gone, otherwise excellent.