Description:

Byzantine Empire, ca. 8th to 12th century CE. A cast bronze roundel (orbiculi) portrait of the head and shoulders of Jesus Christ in low relief and surrounded by a border of raised circles. Behind his head is a halo with a cross. It seems likely that the piece once had enamel or other inlaid details; the undecorated obverse shows evidence of having once been gilded. Comes with custom stand. Size: 1.4" W (3.6 cm); height on stand: 2.3" (5.8 cm).

A roundel like this one may have served as a decorative addition to a tunic or cloak - late Roman clothing was often highly decorated with embroidered strips (clavi) and orbiculi - or may have been added to a saddle. Imagine it highly polished, perhaps with colorful details, adorning the dress of a bishop or other church official, flashing brightly in the sun!

Provenance: Ex-Private East Coast, USA Collection

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#120870

  • Condition: Piece seems to have an ancient loss to its top, like it once had a loop for suspension. Dark patina overall. Small traces of gilt on the undecorated face.

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September 14, 2017 7:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,000
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $25,000