Plaque with the Crucifixion and Defeat of Hades -

This plaque is a Byzantine masterpiece among ivory icons. It is a small representation of the Crucifixion and is the only surviving portion of a triptych whose wings are now missing.

This Byzantine depiction of the Crucifixion emphasizes Christ's victory over death. In this case, the cross signifies both the weapon with which Christ's crucifixion wins man's salvation and a victory standard. The impact of this message is brilliantly conveyed through the simplicity of the composition, which is marked by large areas of uncarved ivory. The resulting shallow space creates a dramatic stage for the emotional pathos of the figures.