Standing Warrior from a Rosette Casket

Standing Warrior from a Rosette Casket

Warrior

This ivory fragment is thick and conical, due to the natural curve of the elephant tusk from which it is carved. The high relief creates extreme shadows and contrast between the warrior and the background. Although the ivory is worn, the warrior’s dignified pose is still very evident as he holds his spear and shield, as well the material’s natural sheen. The fragment we see is only a small part of a larger work known as a rosette casket – a highly decorative carved box used to secure household valuables – that would have been created exclusively by a skilled craftsman working on commission for a member of the upper-class.

The Dumbarton Oaks Research Library and Collection

10th century CE

Hannah Mackey

The Dumbarton Oaks Research Library and Collection

http://museum.doaks.org/objects-1/info/35737

Ivory; 5 x 4.1 cm

Fragment from a rosette casket

BZ.1952.11