Near East/Holy Land, Byzantine Empire, ca. 10th to 12th century CE. A very nice example of one half of a cast bronze reliquary cross with the remaining side displaying an incised figure of Christ, his arms spread wide. Relics - physical remains of saints or objects associated with Christ, such as pieces of the True Cross, the shroud His body was wrapped in, or, mythically, the Holy Grail - held tremendous power in medieval Christianity. Reliquaries, objects designed to hold relics, were usually kept in cathedrals or churches, but some wealthy individuals were able to possess them. The less wealthy could purchase replicas of reliquaries, small reliquaries containing less precious items like soil from a holy site, or metal items produced as a form of souvenir from shrines. Size: 1.75" W x 3.25" H (4.4 cm x 8.3 cm)

Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection

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#131402

One half of a reliquary. Small loss to loop for suspension. Nice preservation of detail and smooth, dark green patina on surface.