Casket with Scenes from Genesis c. 12th century

Editor: This is a small, intricately carved box titled "Casket with Scenes from Genesis" by an unidentified artist. The material itself seems quite humble, yet the detail is incredible. What can you tell me about the labor that went into creating this? Curator: Considering the intricate carvings depicting scenes from Genesis, the making of this object surely involved specialized labor. The choice of material – possibly ivory or bone – suggests a connection to trade networks and consumption practices of the time. Who would have been able to afford something like this? Editor: That's fascinating. So, it's not just about the religious imagery, but also about the socioeconomic context of its creation? Curator: Precisely! Examining the casket reveals more than just biblical narratives; it unveils the social and economic dynamics at play in its production and eventual use. Editor: I never thought about it that way before; thanks for sharing your perspective. Curator: My pleasure. It’s always rewarding to reconsider our assumptions about art and labor.