Skip to main content

Main Building

Casket

c. 1360
Artist/maker unknown, Swiss or Burgundian

This rare casket (an ornamental box) offers a fascinating representation of courtly, secular art in the medieval period. The leather covering of this example is decorated with an abundance of images, including animals, mythological and grotesque creatures, and heads of people, recalling the marginal figures that appear in contemporary manuscript illuminations. On either side of the front, within the complex designs are standing male and female figures wearing garments fashionable around 1360. The lid shows the coats of arms of the counts of Savoy and the Montferrand family of Vaud, Switzerland, areas that were linked politically. The casket may have been made to celebrate a marriage between members of these two important families.


Object Details

We are always open to learning more about our collections and updating the website. Does this record contain inaccurate information or language that you feel we should improve or change? Contact us here.

Please note that this particular artwork might not be on view when you visit. Don’t worry—we have plenty of exhibitions for you to explore.


Main Building