This artifact is a Byzantine bronze cross, exquisitely detailed with a high-relief depiction of Christ, from the 9th to 10th century AD, and measures 4 x 2.3 cm. The intricate relief work and inscriptions are hallmarks of the spiritual artistry of the Byzantine era. The surface patina, with its varying shades of green and brown, highlights the age and sacred character of this devotional item.

The bronze material, chosen for its enduring quality, adds to the weightiness of the artifact both physically and symbolically. The front shows Christ in a central position, flanked by deep-relief inscriptions, a classic Byzantine iconographic motif. Such crosses were often used in personal devotion, reflecting the user's deep religious commitment. The reverse side, with its equally detailed imagery, suggests that this cross was meant to be viewed from both sides, signifying the omnipresence of the divine.

Collectors and connoisseurs of Byzantine art will recognize the cross's distinctive artistic features, indicative of the period's rich ecclesiastical heritage. As an artifact, it encapsulates the essence of Byzantine religious sentiment, serving as a significant testament to the era's reverence for iconographic imagery in personal piety and public worship.

Dimensions:
1.57 x 0.90 inches (4 x 2.3 cm)

Thousand Planet Auction House - General Condition Policy

1. All lots offered in our auctions are acquired from major estate auctions and are carefully curated by Thousand Planet Auction House. We represent the first point of provenance post-acquisition, with sources including estates in Dubai and collections from hobby enthusiasts.

2. 'As Is' Sale: Each lot is sold in its present condition ('as is'), inclusive of all existing faults, wear, or imperfections. While we strive to provide detailed descriptions and high-quality photographs, we do not make claims or guarantees about the condition, authenticity, or completeness of any lot.

3. Buyer Responsibility: It is the responsibility of prospective buyers to thoroughly review all provided materials, conduct their own research, and, if necessary, consult external expertise. This due diligence is vital in ascertaining the condition and authenticity of each item. Thousand Planet Auction House will not be held liable for any errors or omissions in condition reports or descriptions.

4. Final Sale: All sales at Thousand Planet Auction House are final and conclusive. We do not accept returns, nor do we issue refunds based on condition or authenticity disputes. Buyers are encouraged to be fully informed about their selections before making a purchase.

Thousand Planet Auction House - Efforts in Information Generation:

At Thousand Planet Auction House, we understand the importance of providing our clients with as much information as possible about each lot we present. Our commitment to this goal is unwavering, especially given the unique challenges we face.

Due to the diverse origins of our lots, which often come from large estate auctions where items are mixed and provenance can be complex, we do not receive detailed historical provenance for every item. In response to this challenge, our dedicated team works tirelessly to research each artifact. We employ a rigorous process of visual analysis and comparison, drawing upon a vast array of resources including academic research from universities, findings from various institutes, and records from museums globally.

This meticulous approach allows us to create informed introductions for each lot. We aim to provide our bidders with a clear understanding of each item's characteristics and possible historical context. It's important for our clients to know that every piece of information in our listings is the result of extensive research and careful consideration by our knowledgeable staff.

We take pride in our efforts to uncover and present as much information as we can. However, we also recognize the limitations of our research and encourage bidders to conduct their own investigations. This collaborative approach between our auction house and potential buyers ensures a more comprehensive understanding of each lot and its potential value.