Object Description
This excellent bone triptych is a highly rare and unusual piece, but features wonderfully detailed engravings of the Madonna. The triptych is shaped like an arch, and backed onto a wooden frame, the sides of which fold over to close it. When opened, the central panel reveals an engraved depiction of Mary reading a book which has been wrapped in fabric. She is shown wearing a crown and with a halo behind her. The flanking panels show a woman holding a box and a man holding an urn on the left and right respectively. The borders of the panels are engraved with floral and foliate motifs.