Byzantine Bronze Processional Cross on Marble Stand






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This Byzantine bronze processional cross, dating from the 10th to 12th century AD, has an elaborate openwork design and is displayed on a red marble stand.
Description from the seller
Attention: due to customs regulations we can only ship inside the European Union. Please ensure you have a valid EU shipping address before placing a bid.
Very rare and impressive Byzantine bronze processional cross featuring an elaborate openwork design and a richly ornamented spherical knob.
The central cross has slightly flared arms and is enclosed within a broad circular frame. The outer frame is embellished with projecting terminals and additional decorative elements extending upwards from the upper section.
Below the cross, a tapering stem leads to an intricately worked spherical knob, decorated with an elaborate openwork lattice pattern. Beneath the knob is a cylindrical shaft with finely incised horizontal bands and a slightly flared base.
The cross is displayed on a red marble base (not fixed), which will be included in the sale.
The spherical knob and lower stem suggest that this example was designed for mounting on a staff or similar support, allowing the cross to be carried during religious processions.
Height cross: ± 23..5 cm
Width cross: ± 12.4 cm
Diameter marble base: 7.1 cm
Total height including marble stand: ± 26.5 cm
Condition:
Complete, in good and solid condition. The bronze displays an attractive green and brown patina with areas of natural surface encrustation, highlighting the intricate craftsmanship and decorative details. Minor surface irregularities and signs of wear consistent with age and use.
Certificate of Authenticity (PDF) is available upon request for all lots with a hammer price of €100 or higher.
-> Processional crosses played an important role in Byzantine Christian religious ceremonies and liturgical traditions. They were carried during religious processions, displayed during church services and used as visible symbols of Christian faith and devotion.
The cross within a circular frame is a distinctive form of Christian ornamentation, combining the central symbol of Christianity with a surrounding ring. Such designs appeared in Byzantine metalwork and ecclesiastical objects.
Elaborately decorated examples could incorporate pierced metalwork, geometric patterns and ornamental elements, reflecting the artistic traditions of Byzantine craftsmen.
Seller's Story
Attention: due to customs regulations we can only ship inside the European Union. Please ensure you have a valid EU shipping address before placing a bid.
Very rare and impressive Byzantine bronze processional cross featuring an elaborate openwork design and a richly ornamented spherical knob.
The central cross has slightly flared arms and is enclosed within a broad circular frame. The outer frame is embellished with projecting terminals and additional decorative elements extending upwards from the upper section.
Below the cross, a tapering stem leads to an intricately worked spherical knob, decorated with an elaborate openwork lattice pattern. Beneath the knob is a cylindrical shaft with finely incised horizontal bands and a slightly flared base.
The cross is displayed on a red marble base (not fixed), which will be included in the sale.
The spherical knob and lower stem suggest that this example was designed for mounting on a staff or similar support, allowing the cross to be carried during religious processions.
Height cross: ± 23..5 cm
Width cross: ± 12.4 cm
Diameter marble base: 7.1 cm
Total height including marble stand: ± 26.5 cm
Condition:
Complete, in good and solid condition. The bronze displays an attractive green and brown patina with areas of natural surface encrustation, highlighting the intricate craftsmanship and decorative details. Minor surface irregularities and signs of wear consistent with age and use.
Certificate of Authenticity (PDF) is available upon request for all lots with a hammer price of €100 or higher.
-> Processional crosses played an important role in Byzantine Christian religious ceremonies and liturgical traditions. They were carried during religious processions, displayed during church services and used as visible symbols of Christian faith and devotion.
The cross within a circular frame is a distinctive form of Christian ornamentation, combining the central symbol of Christianity with a surrounding ring. Such designs appeared in Byzantine metalwork and ecclesiastical objects.
Elaborately decorated examples could incorporate pierced metalwork, geometric patterns and ornamental elements, reflecting the artistic traditions of Byzantine craftsmen.
