Ivory objects rarely survive from the Roman world, in large part because of the material’s fragility and sensitivity to humidity. Elephant ivory, imported from Africa or Asia, was especially prized, and reserved only for the most valuable depictions of deities. Bone, more easily procured, was used to decorate chests and other furniture. Whether in ivory or bone, these fine objects can be imagined as a part of a luxury domestic setting.
Exhibit Items
Late Roman, late 4th–5th century; ivory; 8.8 × 4.7 × 1.6 cm (3 7/16 × 1 7/8 × 5/8 in.). BZ.1938.63
Early Byzantine, 6th century; ivory; 7.5 × 6 × 2.5 (2 15/16 × 2 3/8 × 1 in.). BZ.1948.15
Roman, 2nd century; ivory; 20.3 × 11.5 × 1.1 cm (8 × 4 1/2 × 7/16 in.). BZ.1942.1
Late Roman, 4th century; bone; 7.9 × 5.6 cm (3 1/8 × 2 3/16 in.). BZ.1945.5
Late Roman, 4th century; bone, bronze, iron; 9.5 × 4.5 cm (3 3/4 × 1 3/4 in.). BZ.1969.11