Since 2016, archaeologists from the University of Innsbruck have been excavating a late antique settlement atop a hill in Irschen, southern Austria. In August 2022, beneath the altar of one of the early Christian churches, they discovered a marble chest measuring approximately 20 × 30 cm, which contained a heavily fragmented ivory reliquary (pyxis) adorned with rich Christian motifs.
According to the lead archaeologist Gerald Grabherr, this is the first discovery of its kind in Austria. Globally, only about 40 similar ivory boxes are known, most of which are kept in cathedral treasuries or museums, with the last comparable find dating back roughly a century.
The ivory reliquary is currently undergoing conservation at the University of Innsbruck. Experts note that ivory is highly sensitive to humidity and requires careful, gradual drying to prevent damage. Thanks to extensive restoration work, individual fragments have been stabilized for scientific study, and researchers are working on a three-dimensional reconstruction.
The intricate carvings depict scenes from both the Old and New Testaments. One end shows Moses receiving the Law on Mount Sinai, while another depicts the Ascension of Christ on a chariot drawn by two horses. Researchers believe this depiction is unique for late antique art and could also represent the prophet Elijah, with certain divine elements that are atypical for such scenes.
Further analyses are underway to determine the provenance of the ivory, marble, and metal components, as well as to study the wooden parts and adhesives used in the pyxis.
The hilltop settlement in Irschen, abandoned around 610 CE, covers approximately one hectare. Archaeologists have already documented several dwellings, two churches, a cistern, and personal belongings of the inhabitants. According to Grabherr, from the 4th to 6th centuries, residents of the region often established fortified hilltop settlements to protect themselves from external threats, including clashes with Slavic and Bavarian forces.
The Irschen reliquary provides a significant insight into early Christian art and religious life in the region, and represents a unique example of European ivory carving from the 6th century.
