Byzantine Bronze Cross Pendant

Sub-rectangular in form with raised rectangular panel to centre, cells forming X-motif inlaid with red glass(?) against a blue field, central nacre(?) roundel engraved with a perched bird with polychrome enamelled detailing; trace remains of gilding to upper and side edges; piercing to each corner. 20.6 grams, 38 mm



Acquired in London, early 1980s. Purchased in Europe before 1992. Private collection, Europe. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.11811-206495. This lot has been cleared against the Art Loss Register database, and is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D’Amato.

The small square plaque was possibly part of the decoration of an Evangeliary, such as the enamels covering the binding of Henry II's Perikopenbuch, or the Siena Evangeliary (11th-13th century). Byzantium brought the enamel and cloisonné technique to its most perfect, refined and skilful expression. Between the 10th and 11th centuries, it spread its forms in the East and West and after some infiltration in the Romanesque-Lombard sphere, precious Eastern Roman cloisonnes were found in Russian art, reaching their apex in the Roman Empire during the 10th-12th centuries, in the decoration of icons and other artworks.

Hollow-formed sheet-bronze enkolpion with cells to the angles (two remaining), five large cells to the obverse with inset cabochon (one remaining). 42 grams, 94 mm



Acquired on the German art market pre 1998. This lot is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D’Amato.

Including belt fittings, penannular brooch with pin and other items. 41.3 grams total, 25-44 mm



Acquired before 1983. Ex London gallery, 1990s. This lot is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D’Amato.