Miniature tabernacle, carved in
boxwood
The Netherlands, around AD
1500-30
This elaborate tabernacle was designed as a
portable object of private devotion. It is an outstanding example
of the minutely detailed, small-scale works of art that were owned
by nobles or wealthy merchants in northern Europe during this
period. Such objects were highly prized as masterpieces of carving
and invention.
The
tabernacle is set in a Gothic architectural framework. It consists
of several sections which come apart to reveal in astonishing
detail scenes from the Life and Passion of Christ. The finial at
the top is of the Pelican in Piety, symbolic of the sacrifice of
Christ. It lifts off and four petals beneath unfold to recount
Christ's childhood. A three-dimensional figure of the
Virgin and Child rises within the centre, turned by a
ratchet.
The two-part
central sphere is hinged, the upper half carved on the exterior
with scenes framed by Gothic balustrading and crockets. Within, it
contains two doors carved with further scenes on the inner and
outer leaves, which open to reveal the Crucifixion carved in high
relief. The interior of the lower half contains relief scenes
relating to the Resurrection. The hexagonal stem, with alternating
scenes and delicate openwork tracery, lifts off to reveal three
further scenes carved in high
relief.
The carrying case
is made of cuir bouilli (boiled leather), mounted with gold
filigree and stamped with floral designs. It also bears the badges
and coats of arms of Charles V as Holy Roman Emperor and as King of
Spain.
C.H. Read, The Waddesdon Bequest: Catalog (, 1902)
H. Tait, The Waddesdon Bequest: the leg (, 1981)