Byzantine Bronze “The Bejewelled Cross of Christ” —...

A striking Byzantine Christian devotional medallion, now presented as a wearable pendant, displaying two of the most important images of Byzantine faith: Christ and the Cross. One side depicts Christ, shown frontally with a halo surrounding His head. He appears to hold a Holy Book, or Gospel Book, an image associated with Christ as teacher and bearer of the divine word. Despite the considerable age-related wear, the central figure, halo and elements of the garment remain discernible and give the medallion a powerful devotional character. The opposite side carries a prominent cross with expanded arms, accompanied by geometric elements within its quarters. The design is reminiscent of the richly ornamented or jeweled crosses (crux gemmata) that played an important role in Byzantine Christian imagery. Such crosses symbolized not simply the Crucifixion, but also Christ's victory, salvation and eternal life. The combination of Christ with the Holy Gospel on one side and the sacred Cross on the other makes this an especially evocative Christian object. Pieces carrying such imagery could function as personal expressions of faith and protection. The bronze has developed a deep dark patina with warmer copper-toned highlights across the raised details, emphasizing the ancient relief and irregular character of the surface. Object: Devotional medallion / wearable pendant Material: Bronze Culture: Byzantine Christian Obverse: Christ with halo, apparently holding the Holy Gospel Reverse: Prominent jeweled-style Christian cross with surrounding geometric devices Symbolism: Faith, divine protection, salvation and the Word of Christ Condition: Ancient surface with substantial age-related wear, deposits and patination; important elements of the original religious imagery remain visible. Please study the photographs carefully. Modern addition: Suspension fitting and chain are modern and are intended for wearable presentation. A highly atmospheric piece of Byzantine Christian imagery, bringing together the image of Christ, the Holy Book and the victorious Cross in a single wearable historical object.

Estimate:$224.08

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