Near East/Holy Land, Byzantine Empire, ca. 8th to 12th century CE. A rare example of an undecorated reliquary cross made from three parts, consisting of two crosses that fit together, and a large loop for suspension. While the cross was once able to be opened to hold a small relic or a prayer document, both halves have fused together over time. This example is quite unusual in that its faces are undecorated - many have incised motifs. Size: 2" W x 4.05" H (5.1 cm x 10.3 cm)

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 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. Later, many of these objects were destroyed in times of religious conflict or strife; ones that are intact have often been passed down through generations of families.

Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection

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#137217

Cross halves cannot be opened. Age-commensurate surface wear with earthen deposits in recessed areas and near hinges. Attractive dark green patina covers much of the surface.