Maps of Power

Ciborium from Ulcinj

Begin 01.01.0813
End 31.12.0820

Properties

ID 132738
System Class Artifact
Artifact Church Furnishing
Case Study Beyond East and West: Sacred Landscapes Duklja and Raška , Tabula Imperii Byzantini , TIB 17
Stylistic Classification Pre-Romanesque

Description

The ciborium from Ulcinj is one of the oldest (partially) preserved ciboriums. It dates back to the beginning of the 9th century. This ciborium stands out for its relief decoration with figural motifs made in the pre-Romanesque style. On the right is an image of a lion devouring a smaller animal, which on its part devours a bird, referring to the invocation of salvation (Psalm 21:22), and on the left is another lion represented above a palm tree. There is also a partially preserved inscription engraved along the frame of the ciborium.
The frontal arcade of the ciborium was found in Ulcinj in 1937. The exact location of the find remains unknown. Then, it was transferred to the National Museum in Belgrade. Since then, it has been part of the permanent exhibition of medieval heritage. In 2005, another fragment belonging to the same structure was identified, allowing scholars to conclude that the ciborium had a rectangular structure and was probably positioned above the altar of the church. Apart from the names of the donors inscribed on the ciborium, namely of Gusma and her husband, the inscription mentions two Byzantine Emperors Leo and Constantine, identified as Leo V (reigned 813-820) and his son Constantine (reigned as co-emperor 813-820). This made it possible to date the ciborium and the church to the years 813-820.

Relations

Actors (1)
Name Class Begin End Relation Type Description
National Museum in Belgrade Group None

Files

The Ciborium from Ulcinj
The Ciborium from Ulcinj
The Ciborium from Ulcinj, Detail
The Ciborium from Ulcinj, Detail