Plaque of St. Nicholas and Roger II
Type:
Plaques
Date:
1130s
Location or Findspot (Modern-Day Country):
Italy
Dimensions:
24.4 × 23.4 cm
Description:
This copper enameled plaque was originally on the ciborium of the high altar in the basilica of San Nicola at Bari, which also had the St. Nicholas's relics. It shows the saint (identified as "SCS NICOLAVS") crowning, or simply placing his hand on, Roger II of Sicily (r. 1130–1154; identified as RO/GE/RIUS/REX). Roger holds an orb and standard while Nicholas appears dressed as a bishop, with a crozier in his left hand.
In 1130, there were two competing claimants to the papacy, and Roger supported Antipope Anacletus II against Innocent II. In return, he was crowned King of Sicily. The image on this plaque, which shows the saint's approval of Roger, would have helped to legitimize Roger's rule at a time when his royal title was in dispute. The plaque is made from a combination of enameling techniques, in this case champlevé and cloisonné. In southern Italy, local workshops often created objects by mixing techniques, styles, and iconographies.
In 1130, there were two competing claimants to the papacy, and Roger supported Antipope Anacletus II against Innocent II. In return, he was crowned King of Sicily. The image on this plaque, which shows the saint's approval of Roger, would have helped to legitimize Roger's rule at a time when his royal title was in dispute. The plaque is made from a combination of enameling techniques, in this case champlevé and cloisonné. In southern Italy, local workshops often created objects by mixing techniques, styles, and iconographies.
Relevant Textbook Chapter(s):
7
Repository and Online Resources:
• The plaque is now in the Museo Nicolaiano di Bari.
Image Credits:
Linda Safran
