Harbaville Triptych

The Harbaville Triptych is a magnificent Byzantine ivory triptych from the mid-10th century, now proudly housed in the Louvre. This exquisite piece features a Deesis and various saints, with remnants of its original coloring still visible on some figures. It is regarded as the finest and best-preserved example from the "Romanos group" of ivories, thought to have been crafted in a workshop in Constantinople closely associated with the Imperial Court.

The "Romanos group" derives its name from a particular ivory plaque in Paris and includes similar works located in Rome, the Vatican, and Moscow. The Harbaville Triptych stands out for its elegance and intricate craftsmanship, showcasing the polished and sophisticated style typical of the courtly school. While several groups of ivories from different workshops—possibly linked to the Court—have been identified, they vary significantly in quality and refinement.

Each side of the triptych is intricately carved, depicting saints on the outer panels and a detailed decorative scheme on the back of the central panel. Although the early history of this ivory masterpiece remains a mystery, it was named after its first recorded owner, Louis-François Harbaville, who inherited it from the Beugny de Pommeras family of Arras. The Louvre acquired this remarkable piece in 1891 from Harbaville's grandsons and heirs.

The Harbaville Triptych is a significant artifact in the history of Macedonian art, particularly given the abundance of surviving ivories compared to panel paintings from that era. Its beauty and historical importance make it a true treasure of the Byzantine period.