Medieval Period – Gilded Bronze Decorative Mount - Crusader Kingdom 11th–13th Century AD Material: Bronze with original fire-gilding (gold layer visible on front and sides) Description: This high-quality gilded bronze decorative mount originates from the Cilician Armenian Crusader Kingdom, a medieval Christian state that flourished along the southeastern coast of Asia Minor between the 11th and 14th centuries. The mount is oval in shape and features a finely engraved stylised lion, depicted in a heraldic and emblematic manner characteristic of Cilician Armenian metalwork. The lion is rendered with simplified yet powerful lines, emphasizing strength, vigilance, and authority rather than naturalistic detail. Integral attachment loops at the top and bottom indicate the piece was originally fixed to a larger object. The original fire-gilding remains clearly visible across the face and along the sides, confirming that this was a luxury decorative element, intended to be prominently displayed. Cultural & Historical Context: The lion held exceptional importance in Armenian royal and noble symbolism, particularly during the Cilician period. It served as: A symbol of royal authority and sovereignty An emblem of military power and protection A dynastic motif associated with Armenian kings and princes Cilician Armenian workshops are well known for producing high-status bronze fittings with gilded surfaces and animal imagery, often used to decorate: Ceremonial belts Horse harnesses and military equipment Scabbards and sword fittings Liturgical or courtly objects These works display a distinctive fusion of Byzantine craftsmanship, Near Eastern decorative traditions, and Crusader-era heraldic language, all of which are evident in the present piece. Function: Most likely a decorative mount or appliqué, originally attached to a belt, harness, weapon fitting, or ceremonial object belonging to an elite individual—possibly military or aristocratic. Measurements: Length: 25.8 mm Width: 16.3 mm Weight: 3.3 g Condition: Very good condition for the period. The bronze structure is intact, with authentic medieval patina and clearly preserved original gilding, including on the sides. Minor earthen deposits remain in recessed areas, enhancing the visibility of the engraved lion and supporting the object’s authenticity. No modern restoration observed. Provenance: From an old European private collection formed in the 1980s. A declaration of legal origin is available in PDF format upon request. Collector’s Note: Gilded bronze mounts from the Cilician Armenian Kingdom are increasingly rare on the market, particularly examples retaining visible gold layers and clear iconography. Comparable pieces are preserved in museum collections of medieval Armenian and Crusader art, though most survive only in fragmentary condition.