Bloodstone Cameo with Saint George

The Cleveland Museum of Art catalogs Bloodstone Cameo with Saint George as glyptic (Byzantium, Contantinople, Byzantine period, 11th century · 1000–1100).

WHY IT’S INTERESTING

Legends about bravery can be comforting in times of distress. The wearer of this cameo, for example, may have thought about the fearlessness of Saint George in his battle against the dragon.

SERENDIPITYA little unexpected

FamiliarWeird

A CLOSER LOOK

The museum identifies this glyptic as bloodstone.

The museum's collection notes: Bearing the image of Saint George, one of the Byzantine Empire’s most popular saints, this cameo served as a powerful devotional and protective device. Close physical contact with a holy image was believed to enhance its effectiveness, creating a strong bond between the worshipper and the devotional object. Originally worn around the neck, this cameo was easily kissed and touched in moments of distress or crisis. Bloodstone was also believed to carry magical medicinal powers to stop hemorrhages and increase blood circulation.

FOLLOW THE EVIDENCE

The Cleveland Museum of ArtBloodstone Cameo with Saint George

Original explanation based on the sources above. Images carry their own reuse terms.