A BYZANTINE GEM SET GOLD CROSS, CIRCA 6TH-7TH CENTURY A.D.

拍品描述

A BYZANTINE GEM SET GOLD CROSS, CIRCA 6TH-7TH CENTURY A.D. Worked in gold and set with red gemstones and small pearls, this Byzantine cross pendant is formed with four flaring arms and a prominent suspension loop above. The front is richly articulated, while the reverse is comparatively plain, allowing the construction of the sheet-gold body to be clearly understood. Its elongated vertical axis, pendant drops, and central cabochon give the piece a strong devotional presence, while the warm surface of the gold softens the overall effect. The decoration is concentrated on the front, where each arm is bordered in raised gold and filled with fine wirework scrolls. These curling filigree elements create a lively internal pattern within the cross, contrasting with the smoother outer edges. At the centre is a rounded red cabochon set in a gold collar, its deep colour drawing the eye to the crossing point. Further red stone drops hang from the lower and side arms, while small pearls are set near the ribbed suspension loop, adding a lighter note to the otherwise red and gold palette. The pendant would have been worn suspended from the loop, probably on a chain or cord, as a personal devotional object. In the Byzantine world, such crosses were both ornaments and expressions of Christian belief, worn close to the body as signs of faith and protection. The use of precious metal and coloured stones heightened the object’s visual and symbolic importance, making it suitable for private devotion while also displaying status and refinement. By the 6th to 7th century A.D., the cross had become one of the most important forms in Byzantine personal jewellery. This example reflects that period’s taste for small-scale luxury, combining sheet-gold construction, filigree ornament, gemstones, pearl details, and suspended elements into a compact but carefully composed object. Its form is decorative, but its meaning remains direct: the cross is presented as both sacred emblem and personal jewel. The present cross comes from a Private British Collection, acquired in the late 1990s, and thence by descent. With its balanced proportions, gem-set centre, filigree decoration, and pendant drops, it is a finely worked example of early Byzantine devotional jewellery. Length: 6.7 cm Width: 3.5 cm Weight: 11 g Private British Collection, acquired in the late 1990's Thence by descent Height: 6.8cm

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