Icon polyptic and leather case, 18th-19th century, 4 7/8 x 3 1/8 x 3/4 in. (12.4 x 7.9 x 1.9 cm) (polyptic, overall, without cord or fabric), Wood, cord, fabric, pigment, leather, string, Ethiopia, 18th-19th century, From an early age, the kingdom of Axum, precursor of today's Ethiopia, came into contact with Christianity. Around 324 CE King Ezana adopted the new creed as a state religion - thus making Ethiopia one of the first Christian countries in the world. Christian images from various Middle Eastern and Mediterranean artistic traditions were introduced, and many foreign artists worked at the court. Over time, Ethiopian icons developed their own characteristic style.