Byzantium, ca. 7th to 12th century CE. A finely cast bronze button featuring a meticulously delineated Star of David at the center surrounded by concentric circles with a decorative openwork border. During the Byzantine Empire, Jews did not belong to the Christian Eastern Orthodox state religion, however they were not relegated with pagans and heretics. Instead they occupied a position somewhere between these two marginalized groups. Their social freedoms varied and were determined by the desire of the state to present the Jews as a living testament to the victory of Christianity, how driven the state was to maintain its control, and the power of Constantinople to uphold its legislation. A special example of Judaica from the Byzantine era. Size: 1.625" L x 1.375" in diameter (4.1 cm x 3.5 cm)

Provenance: private New Jersey USA collection, acquired over twenty years ago

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#121610

Tiny hole at tip of perforated attachment (for sewing to garment fabric) on the back. Expected surface wear commensurate with age, fabulous patina and some encrustation.