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Elizabeth A.Sackler Center for Feminist Art

Maximilla

Flourished circa C.E. 250, Rome

The prophetess Maximilla was an early advocate of Montanism, a heretical Christian sect founded in the third century C.E. by Montanus. The sect spread through North Africa and Asia Minor. Maximilla was a member of Montanus’ group of illuminati (“enlightened ones”), who advocated a rigorous morality combined with ecstatic forms of religious worship. Montanism granted women more freedom than the early Christian church; they were allowed, for instance, to perform public religious services and hold church office.

Judy Chicago (American, b. 1939). <em>The Dinner Party</em> (Heritage Floor; detail), 1974–79. Porcelain with rainbow and gold luster, 48 x 48 x 48 ft. (14.6 x 14.6 x 14.6 m). Brooklyn Museum, Gift of the Elizabeth A. Sackler Foundation, 2002.10. © Judy Chicago. Photograph by Jook Leung Photography
Judy Chicago (American, b. 1939). The Dinner Party (Heritage Floor; detail), 1974–79. Porcelain with rainbow and gold luster, 48 x 48 x 48 ft. (14.6 x 14.6 x 14.6 m). Brooklyn Museum, Gift of the Elizabeth A. Sackler Foundation, 2002.10. © Judy Chicago. Photograph by Jook Leung Photography

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