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LOT 0969
Byzantine Bronze Buckle Plate
7TH-8TH CENTURY A.D.
2 1/4 in. (21.2 grams, 57 mm).
Tongue-shaped with an applied openwork panel, cross-in-wheel motif within a segmented border and zoomorphic detailing; loops to the broad end and knop finial to the rounded end.
ProvenanceAcquired 1980-2015.
Ex Abelita family collection.
Cf. Wamser, L., Die Welt von Byzanz - Europas Östliches Erbe, München, 2004, item 445, for type.
FootnotesWithin the category of these buckles to which the current example belongs to, the plate was decorated with an openwork pattern which was rivetted onto a cover plate. The central decoration varied between purely vegetal depictions, mostly vines, and allegorical animal scenes, which J. Werner interpreted as a pictorial implementation of the animal symbolism of Physiologus.
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Byzantine Bronze Pendant with Angel and Inscription
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Claw-shaped with cross and angel motif to the obverse; an inscription reading '+O KAT...Y' to the reverse. 7.9 grams, 39 mm
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While one side is engraved with an angel with a cross-staff, the other side is engraved with the beginning of Psalm 91 (90): + Ο ΚΑΤΟΙΚΟΝ ΕΝ ΒΟΗΘΙΑ ΤΟΥ ΥΨΙϹΤΟΙ…(He who dwells in the shadow of the Most High…).