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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Lifestyle
Mark Brown North of England correspondent

EXPLAINED: Rare early medieval ivory carving acquired for 2m by v a | Rare Historical Photos

Section of the 12th-century carving, which depicts Joseph of Arimathea lifting Christ’s body from the cross
Section of the 12th-century carving, which depicts Joseph of Arimathea lifting Christ’s body from the cross. Photograph: Stevenson, James/Victoria & Albert Museum

A beautiful 12th-century walrus ivory carving regarded as an “elemental object of English art” is to remain in the UK after the V&A successfully raised £2m to acquire it.

The 18cm-high sculpture was probably carved in York more than 800 years ago and shows Joseph of Arimathea tenderly lifting Jesus Christ’s body from the cross.

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