UNKNOWN GOLDSMITH, German
(active c. 961 in Saxony)

Imperial crown

961
Gold, enamel plaques and precious stones
Treasury of the Residenz, Munich

The imperial crown was made for Emperor Otto I (912-973) who consolidated the German Reich by his suppression of rebellious vassals and his decisive victory over the Hungarians. His use of the church as a stabilizing influence created a secure empire and stimulated a cultural renaissance.

The enamel plaques on the crown show God the Father and Solomon. The jeweled cross was added late, c. 1030.




© Web Gallery of Art, created by Emil Krén and Daniel Marx.