Ancient Near East, Byzantium, ca. 9th to 12th century CE. A stunning gold-plated silver cross, the design comprised of clustered spheres, suspended from a carefully constructed silver link chain with six gilded openwork, near spherical beads. Given the lengthy scale of this chain, it may have served as a body ornament. Weight of cross and chain: 41 grams; Size: chain measures 35" L (88.9 cm); cross measures 1.125" L x 1.125" W (2.9 cm x 2.9 cm)

The Byzantine period was a time of intense religiosity and immense wealth concentrated in religion. On the backdrop of the Crusades and the split between the Eastern and Western branches of the Church, religious jewelry like this played a significant role. Not only did it symbolize one's status, it also served as a diplomatic tool. Interestingly, Emperor Justinian established laws (later called the Justinian Code) that among other things regulated the wearing of jewelry. He stated that sapphires, pearls, and emeralds were reserved for the emperor; however, every free man was actually entitled to wear a gold ring. This suggests widespread popularity of jewelry. After all, such a law would not have been necessary if jewelry had been a strictly aristocratic luxury. Indeed, wealth abounded in the Byzantine Empire. There were gold mines within its borders. What's more, its geographical location was ideal for trade between the East and the West. Hence, individuals of various pursuits including military officers, traders, as well as high officials reporting to the emperor would all have been able to afford luxurious jewelry.

Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection; ex collection A. T. , Munich, Germany, acquired in 1985

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#129627

Expected surface wear and tarnish commensurate with age. Still splendid and wearable.