Near East/Holy Land, Byzantine Empire, ca. 13th century CE. A beautiful iron cross with flaring arms that terminate in crescent-shapes; each corner has a small, round rivet through it. This simple cross, with its smooth faces, is attached to a smaller, more ornate bronze cross of similar form but with rounded balls at the end of each corner and two additional bars below the larger top bar. The lower terminus was intended to be inserted or attached to a processional staff. A fine example with a beautifully aged surface and gorgeous metal patinas! Size: 11.4" W x 19.5" H (29 cm x 49.5 cm); 23" H (58.4 cm) on included custom stand.

Byzantium was established when the fourth century Emperor Constantine, also known as Saint Constantine, Christianized the Roman Empire and pronounced Constantinople in Byzantium as the capital. The visual culture of this era demonstrates a synthesis of classical Greek, Roman, and Christian influences.

Provenance: private Secaucus, New Jersey, USA collection

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Excellent preservation of form with nice gently textured patina on both metallic surfaces. Attachment of bronze to iron appears to be original. Small casting flaw on upper part of bronze cross.