Ancient Near East, Holy Land, Byzantium, ca. 5th to 6th century CE. An extremely rare belt or collar formed from 9 cast-copper crucifixes linked together with riveted loops and sturdy copper ringlets. The obverse of each cross is decorated with incised concentric circle motifs, and the exterior band of the buckle is incised with four letters that spell 'TOMY'. A triangular catch suspended to the opposite end allowed the wearer to clip it if there was any excess slack. Each component of the belt has developed thick layers of green patina, and all components are original. Size of each cross (all are relatively similar): 1.75" W x 2.3" H (4.4 cm x 5.8 cm); (full belt): 28.375" L (72.1 cm)

The Byzantine Empire was established in the 4th century CE when the Emperor Constantine, also known as Saint Constantine, Christianized the Roman Empire and pronounced the city of Constantinople in Byzantium as the capital. The visual culture of this era demonstrates a synthesis of classical Greek, Roman, and Christian influences. The cross would have been familiar to all citizens, a universal and omnipresent symbol of the pious, Christian culture.

Published: J. Eisenberg. "Art of the Ancient World," vol. XXV (2014), no. 166.

Provenance: ex-Royal Athena Galleries, New York City, New York, USA; ex-Berge, Paris, France, December 2012; ex-private New York, USA collection, acquired in the early 1970s

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#179543

Losses to buckle pin and some areas of triangular catch as shown. Some repatination present. Expected abrasions and softening to concentric circles, with light earthen deposits, some encrustations, and softening to four inscribed letters on buckle, otherwise in excellent condition. Nice preservation to original belt components with smooth articulation.