Late Byzantine glass cameo of the Sedes Sapientiae,Venetian 13th century

A late Byzantine glass cameo of the Sedes Sapientiae.

Venetian, 13th century.

Measures 5 x 4.3 x 1.2cm.

The glass cameo shows the enthroned Virgin and Child in between two Saints. The cameo has considerable damage to both the upper left and right sides however the image of the Virgin and Child although worn remain a powerful image.

The Latin ‘Sedes Sapientiae’ translates to the ‘Throne’ or ‘Seat of Wisdom’, a popular depiction of the enthroned Virgin and Child throughout the Byzantine era.

Similar examples can be found in the collection of the British Museum, Registration numbers: 1880,0614.24, 1995,0408.2, 1854,0722.19, 1884,0509.12.