Artwork preview

Powder Flask of Jacques de Silly (1513–1571)

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The object is a Y-shaped, off-white, ornate container made of what appears to be bone or ivory. It features intricate carvings and designs. The top portion is cylindrical with a small hole on one side and appears to be broken off. The main body of the object is wider and Y-shaped when viewed from the bottom, with the three ends of the Y being roughly equal in length. The surface is adorned with various carved elements, including a shield with a cross and other patterns, a face with a beard and hair that resembles the sun's rays, a lion's head, and a banner with the inscription "NOVAM MARPESIA CAVE". The object is set against a plain gray background.

Artwork details

Date:
1568
Medium:
Antler
Culture:
French
Dimensions:
437 × 625 px
Museum record:
View original
Palette