Byzantine Bronze Cross - 7.2 cm
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Selected by Peter Reynaers
Has nearly 30 years’ experience and moderated multiple online art research groups.
Estimate € 300 - € 380
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Byzantine bronze cross appliqué dating to the 9th–12th century AD, with broad expanding arms terminating in rounded knop finials and smaller lateral projections, likely a decorative mounting for a larger object such as a reliquary or casket; dimensions 7.2 × 6.1 × 3 cm, weight 53.11 g, in good condition, provenance Germany with a 2025 acquisition.
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Description from the seller
Byzantine Bronze Cross Appliqué – 9th–12th Century AD
A finely cast Byzantine bronze cross featuring broad expanding arms terminating in rounded knop finials, complemented by smaller lateral projections that create an elegant and highly symmetrical ornamental form. The restrained design is characteristic of Middle Byzantine bronze workmanship, reflecting the enduring Christian artistic traditions of the Eastern Roman Empire.
Rather than functioning as a suspended pendant, this example was most likely produced as a decorative appliqué or mount intended to be affixed to a larger object, such as a reliquary, casket, liturgical furnishing, processional object, or ecclesiastical fitting. The surface displays a rich dark brown patina with scattered areas of green cuprite and malachite encrustation, consistent with prolonged burial and considerable age.
Crosses of this type were widely employed throughout the Byzantine world as expressions of Christian faith and frequently adorned both religious and secular objects. Their simple yet refined geometry reflects the artistic vocabulary that became widespread across the Byzantine Empire during the Middle Byzantine period.
Material: Bronze
Dimensions: 7.2 × 6.1 × 3 cm
Weight: 53.11 g
Provenance: Acquired in Germany. Former German private collection assembled during the 2000’s.
All items come with CoA sent to your email address.
Byzantine Bronze Cross Appliqué – 9th–12th Century AD
A finely cast Byzantine bronze cross featuring broad expanding arms terminating in rounded knop finials, complemented by smaller lateral projections that create an elegant and highly symmetrical ornamental form. The restrained design is characteristic of Middle Byzantine bronze workmanship, reflecting the enduring Christian artistic traditions of the Eastern Roman Empire.
Rather than functioning as a suspended pendant, this example was most likely produced as a decorative appliqué or mount intended to be affixed to a larger object, such as a reliquary, casket, liturgical furnishing, processional object, or ecclesiastical fitting. The surface displays a rich dark brown patina with scattered areas of green cuprite and malachite encrustation, consistent with prolonged burial and considerable age.
Crosses of this type were widely employed throughout the Byzantine world as expressions of Christian faith and frequently adorned both religious and secular objects. Their simple yet refined geometry reflects the artistic vocabulary that became widespread across the Byzantine Empire during the Middle Byzantine period.
Material: Bronze
Dimensions: 7.2 × 6.1 × 3 cm
Weight: 53.11 g
Provenance: Acquired in Germany. Former German private collection assembled during the 2000’s.
All items come with CoA sent to your email address.
Details
Era
Before 1400
Weight
53.11 g
Culture
Byzantine
Century/timeframe
9th to 12th Century AD
Acquired from
Auction house
Material
Bronze
Year acquired
2025
Country of origin
Unknown
Country acquired from
Germany
Height
7.2 cm
Previous owner acquired from
Antique market
Width
6.1 cm
Previous owner - year acquired
2000
Depth
3 cm
Previous owner - country acquired from
Germany
Condition
Good condition - used with small signs of aging & blemishes
I verify that I have obtained this object legally and that I am allowed to sell it
Yes
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The seller was informed by Catawiki about documentation requirements and guarantees the following: - the object was legally obtained, - the seller has the right to sell and/or export the object, as relevant, - the seller will provide the necessary provenance information and arrange required documentation and permits/licenses, as applicable and as per local laws, - the seller will notify the buyer of any delays in obtaining permits/licenses. By bidding, you acknowledge that import documentation may be required depending on your country of residence and that obtaining permits/licenses may cause delays in the delivery of your object.
The seller was informed by Catawiki about documentation requirements and guarantees the following: - the object was legally obtained, - the seller has the right to sell and/or export the object, as relevant, - the seller will provide the necessary provenance information and arrange required documentation and permits/licenses, as applicable and as per local laws, - the seller will notify the buyer of any delays in obtaining permits/licenses. By bidding, you acknowledge that import documentation may be required depending on your country of residence and that obtaining permits/licenses may cause delays in the delivery of your object.
