Diptych pendant, about 1450-80

Interior

Maker unknown, Northern Germany, About 1450-80

This pendant, shaped as a miniature alterpiece,
would have been made as a focus for private prayer.
Many people used jewels in their devotions, but only
the wealthy would have owned a piece like this,
skilfully worked in expensive materials. The deep blue
enamel on this pendant was difficult to apply and
the technique complicated.

V&A

Exterior: annunciation (left); nativity (right)

Inscription and raised detail