Byzantine Bronze Cross Appliqué – 9th–12th Century AD - 7.2 cm

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Peter Reynaers
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Selected by Peter Reynaers

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Estimate  € 330 - € 400
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Byzantine Bronze Cross Appliqué, 9th–12th Century AD, measuring 7.2 × 6.1 × 3 cm and weighing 53.11 g, in good condition, genuine original, acquired in Germany in 2025 from a German private collection.

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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.

We guarantee the authenticity of the pieces, backed by the combined experience of our experts spanning more than 40 years.
A Certificate of Authenticity (CoA) will be sent digitally by email.
This item has been legally acquired in accordance with European law.

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.

We guarantee the authenticity of the pieces, backed by the combined experience of our experts spanning more than 40 years.
A Certificate of Authenticity (CoA) will be sent digitally by email.
This item has been legally acquired in accordance with European law.

Details

Culture
Byzantine
Century/timeframe
9th to 12th Century AD
Name of object
Cross Appliqué – 9th–12th Century AD
Acquired from
Auction house
Year acquired
2025
Material
Bronze
Country acquired from
Germany
Condition
Good
Previous owner acquired from
Antique market
Height
7.2 cm
Previous owner - year acquired
2000
Width
6.1 cm
Previous owner - country acquired from
Germany
Depth
3 cm
I verify that I have obtained this object legally and that I am allowed to sell it
Yes
Authenticity
Original/official
The NetherlandsVerified
485
Objects sold
100%
Privatetop

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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.

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