description Diptych of Areobindus Overview
The Diptych of Areobindus is a Byzantine consular ivory diptych made in 506 to commemorate the consulship of Flavius Areobindus Dagalaiphus Areobindus at Constantinople. Its carved panels depict the consul presiding over public games, an established subject for ceremonial objects distributed by newly appointed consuls. Surviving panels are held in several museum collections and provide evidence for imperial ceremony, costume, and ivory carving in the early sixth century.
help Diptych of Areobindus FAQ
When and where was the Diptych of Areobindus made?
It was made in Constantinople in 506, when Flavius Areobindus Dagalaiphus Areobindus held the consulship. The object is a Byzantine consular ivory diptych. [Louvre collection record](https://collections.louvre.fr/ark%3A/53355/cl010114369)
Who was Areobindus, and why was his image carved into ivory?
Areobindus was the consul of Constantinople in 506. Consuls commissioned diptychs to mark their office and distribute them to important people who had supported their appointment.
What is Areobindus holding in the carved public-games scene?
He is shown wearing the trabea picta and holding a scepter and a mappa. The mappa was a cloth used to signal the start of public games.
Could a consular diptych be used for writing, or was it only ceremonial?
It served both purposes. The two hinged ivory panels had recessed backs for wax writing tablets, and the Louvre records seven known Areobindus diptych examples.
explore Explore More
Similar to Diptych of Areobindus
compare_arrows Compare: Diptych of Clementinus See all arrow_forward
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
