The Virgin and Child

This relief of ivory in a modern carved frame is representing the Virgin and Child with angels. The Virgin stands under a pointed trefoil arch holding the Child on her left arm. The angels stand on either side of her holding candles. The plaque cannot have been part of a diptych or a writing tablet. On acquisition, it was suggested that it had been attached to a book cover, although the conspicuously worn surfaces indicate that it was instead the subject of prolonged affective piety, perhaps being repeatedly kissed and rubbed. There is the possibility that it was worn as an amulet, suspended from the holes near the top, or it may have been employed as a pax.