Byzantine Silver Pendant
Starting bid
€ 1
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Expert
Selected by Peter Reynaers
Has nearly 30 years’ experience and moderated multiple online art research groups.
Estimate € 750 - € 900
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Description from the seller
A rare and highly desirable Middle Byzantine silver reliquary cross (enkolpion), dating to approximately the 10th–12th century AD.
While the majority of surviving examples from this period were cast in utilitarian bronze, this specimen is meticulously crafted from silver (or a high-grade silver alloy). This precious metal composition indicates a high-status commission, likely belonging to a wealthy noble, high-ranking military commander, or prominent member of the medieval clergy.
AUCTION CATALOGUE REPORT
Lot Title~ A Rare Byzantine Silver Reliquary Cross (Enkolpion) Depicting the Crucifixion and the Virgin Mary.Date/PeriodMiddle Byzantine Period, circa 10th–12th Century AD.MaterialCast silver / silver alloy, displaying an authentic, naturally aged dark grey tone and aged patina.
Iconography & Design
This devotional chest pendant is comprised of two distinct, individually cast plates that fit together to form a tight seal.Front Panel (Obverse)Features a full-length, highly stylized relief representation of the Virgin Mary (frequently designated as Theotokos or Panagia).She stands upright in the Orans pose with both hands raised outward and upward in standard Eastern Christian prayer.Linear, incised details illustrate her traditional hooded mantle (maforion).Back Panel (Reverse)Features the classic Crucifixion scene (Stavrosis).A stylized, rigid figure of Jesus Christ stands flat against the crossbars with his arms fully extended horizontally.His head is encircled by a distinct, raised, circular holy halo.
A rare and highly desirable Middle Byzantine silver reliquary cross (enkolpion), dating to approximately the 10th–12th century AD.
While the majority of surviving examples from this period were cast in utilitarian bronze, this specimen is meticulously crafted from silver (or a high-grade silver alloy). This precious metal composition indicates a high-status commission, likely belonging to a wealthy noble, high-ranking military commander, or prominent member of the medieval clergy.
AUCTION CATALOGUE REPORT
Lot Title~ A Rare Byzantine Silver Reliquary Cross (Enkolpion) Depicting the Crucifixion and the Virgin Mary.Date/PeriodMiddle Byzantine Period, circa 10th–12th Century AD.MaterialCast silver / silver alloy, displaying an authentic, naturally aged dark grey tone and aged patina.
Iconography & Design
This devotional chest pendant is comprised of two distinct, individually cast plates that fit together to form a tight seal.Front Panel (Obverse)Features a full-length, highly stylized relief representation of the Virgin Mary (frequently designated as Theotokos or Panagia).She stands upright in the Orans pose with both hands raised outward and upward in standard Eastern Christian prayer.Linear, incised details illustrate her traditional hooded mantle (maforion).Back Panel (Reverse)Features the classic Crucifixion scene (Stavrosis).A stylized, rigid figure of Jesus Christ stands flat against the crossbars with his arms fully extended horizontally.His head is encircled by a distinct, raised, circular holy halo.
Details
Era
Before 1400
Culture
Byzantine
Metal
Silver
Century/timeframe
10-12th century
Acquired from
Auction house
Total weight
13.7 g
Year acquired
2025
Condition
Good condition - used with some signs of wear
Country acquired from
United Kingdom
Previous owner acquired from
Private collection
Previous owner - year acquired
2000
Previous owner - country acquired from
United Kingdom
I verify that I have obtained this object legally and that I am allowed to sell it
Yes
Width
2 cm
Length
5 cm
Sold by
Disclaimer
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.
Bidders need to be aware that several countries do not allow importing objects derived from endangered and other protected species, even if a certificate of origin is provided. By bidding, you confirm that you have familiarised yourself with customs laws and regulations of your own country.
Bidders need to be aware that several countries do not allow importing objects derived from endangered and other protected species, even if a certificate of origin is provided. By bidding, you confirm that you have familiarised yourself with customs laws and regulations of your own country.
