Костяные ларцы в светском декоративно-прикладном искусстве Франции XIV века: стилевая типология и заказчик
Ivory caskets in secular decorative art of 14th century in France: stylistic typology and customer

Summary/Abstract: The study of secular ivory caskets, especially their stylistic and decorative design, is of the utmost interest. This subject is very poorly covered in Russian art literature. However, the detailed analysis of these monuments, especially their decor gives an idea of the intellectual and material culture of medieval society. The scenes from famous romances and ancient legends that adorn the surface of the ivory caskets, help to imagine the customs and traditions of the heyday of medieval courtly culture in Europe, as well as help to define the use and prospective customer. Ivory caskets were the most expensive pieces of ivories and were in store for the big-name clients. The caskets were part of the “dowry” which groom sent to the bride before the wedding and were the main wedding gift. Unfortunately, there is no information which can help to connect certain items with customers. Currently, only about one Parisian ivory casket from the 14th century it is safe to say that he belonged to the Polish queen Jadwiga. But, despite this, we can safely imagine the tastes and habits of the medieval customer and ensure a high level of education in the society at that time.

• Details
• Contents