Ferret
Unknown Artist
7th century (?)
Medium
Copper alloy
Dimensions
Overall: 1 11/16 x 11/16 x 3/16 in. (4.3 x 1.7 x 0.5 cm)
Classification
Metalwork-Copper alloy
Culture
Frankish
Department
Medieval Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of J. Pierpont Morgan, 1917
Accession Number
17.191.272
Art Historical Context
Nestled in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Medieval collection, this charming copper alloy figurine titled *Ferret* captures the lively form of the small mammal in exquisite miniature detail. Measuring just 1 11/ x 11/16 x 3/16 inches (4.3 x 1.7 0.5 cm), it exemplifies the precision of early medieval craftsmanship. Likely cast using lost-wax techniques common in period, the alloy's warm patina highlights the ferret's sleek body, alert posture, and textured fur, inviting viewers to marvel at its portability—perfect for personal adornment or as a talisman. Dating tentatively to the 7th century...