LOT 2039

Meussian Type Enamelled Gilt Plaque

19TH CENTURY A.D.

7 1/8 in. (337 grams, 183 mm).

Rectangular plaque with enamel cloisonné scene of Mary and Joseph during the flight in Egypt; left, the door of the inn open with Saint Aphrodisius emerging, head bowed; centre Jacob, stepbrother of Jesus, advancing with rod and flag over his shoulder, holding the reins of the donkey; right Mary perched on the donkey's back and St Joseph supporting infant Christ. [No Reserve]

From an old French collection.
Acquired on the French art market circa 2000.
From the personal collection of Derek Rogers, Suffolk, UK.

See Thierry, N., La Cappadoce, de l'Antiquite' au Moyen Age, Turnhout, 2022, figs.96, sch.52,58, pl.67, for similar scene.

The plaque shows a version of the 'flight into Egypt' that became popular in Holland in the 16th century, it shows Saint Aphrodisius (venerated by the French as the first bishop of Beziers) welcoming the Holy family to his house, in the background is the palm tree that is said to have bent to shelter the mother and baby from the sun; as shown on this plaque, earlier iconography shows Joseph sometimes carrying the child on his shoulders while the donkey is led by an older boy who may represent the Lord's brother Jacob, who according the tradition of the Orthodox Church is interpreted to be one of the Joseph's sons by a previous marriage.