Description:

Near East, Byzantine Empire, ca. 9th to 13th century CE. A lovely leaded bronze reliquary in the form of a Christian cross with flared arms, unadorned on both sides save for 3 petite indentations at the termini of the vertical arm. The cross is hinged together and top and bottom and surmounted by a suspension loop for easy wear as a pendant. Relics - physical remains of saints or objects associated with Christ, such as pieces of the True Cross, the shroud His body was wrapped in, or, mythically, the Holy Grail - held tremendous power in medieval Christianity. Reliquaries, objects designed to hold relics, were usually kept in cathedrals or churches, but some wealthy individuals were able to possess them. The less wealthy could purchase replicas of reliquaries, small reliquaries containing less precious items like soil from a holy site, or metal items produced as a form of souvenir from shrines. Size: 1.2" W x 2.4" H (3 cm x 6.1 cm)

Provenance: East Coast collection, New York Gallery, New York City, New York, USA, acquired before 2010

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#182448

  • Condition: Suspension loop has some chipping and has hinge stuck in place. Age-commensurate surface wear as shown, but otherwise, intact with a very nice presentation and rich green patina. Wearable as a pendant.

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February 9, 2024 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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