Ancient Near East, Holy Land, Byzantine Empire, ca. 9th to 11th century CE. A beautiful panel depicting Saint George, hand-carved from the scapula of a cow or another ungulate. The panel shows the saintly figure holding a lengthy spear while atop his galloping horse, presumably to slay the mythical dragon he is so famous for killing. The horse is shown striding above a slender bar with stippled embellishments. Underneath horse and rider a segmented panel displaying the robed feet and legs of at least two individuals, indicating this panel was likely once part of a larger carved illustration. Custom museum-quality display stand included. Size: 2.125" W x 3.125" H (5.4 cm x 7.9 cm); 4.125" H (10.5 cm) on included custom stand.

Saint George was born in Lydda, Palestine during the 3rd century CE. He became an officer in the Roman army in guard for Emperor Diocletian, demonstrating impressive skill in battle and receiving high honors for his courage. When he learned that Diocletian was preparing to persecute Christians, George presented himself publicly before them emperor and denounced him. The legend of "Saint George and the Dragon," which originated in the 12th century CE, has immortalized the saint. However, this anecdote is rarely presented in iconography. According to tradition, St. George came to Silene in the province of Libya, where a ravaging dragon demanded daily sacrifice. Fate chose the king's daughter, Elisaba, but George subdued the beast. He told the princess to fasten her sash about the dragon's neck so it could be led through the town for conversion of the people before it was killed.

Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection

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#135550

Piece is a fragment from a larger carving. Motifs are nicely preserved. Item has been repaired from several pieces with some chips, losses, and light adhesive residue along break lines. Some restoration and stabilization material on verso. Surface wear and abrasions commensurate with age, losses to small areas of peripheries, figure, and verso, with fading to some finer details. Light earthen deposits throughout.