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LOT 0988
Byzantine Bronze Openwork Key
CIRCA 8TH-10TH CENTURY A.D.
3 3/8 in. (59 grams, 87 mm).
Formed with a hollow bow open to the sides and with lateral struts, each plate pierced with seven equal-arm crosses; pierced lug above for suspension; barrel-type shank with rectangular bit pierced with two similar crosses. [No Reserve]
ProvenanceFrom a collection acquired on the UK art market from various auction houses and collections mostly before 2000.
From an important Cambridgeshire estate; thence by descent.
Cf. Pall, M., Schlüssel und Schlösser, Graz, 2012, items 4267, 7399, for type.
FootnotesThe repeated use of the cross symbol may indicate an ecclesiastical use.
CONDITIONTimeLine Auctions follows a vetting process to ensure the authenticity and legality of all items, reinforcing our commitment to integrity and responsible trading. Each antiquity, antique, and coin lot undergoes thorough examination by a vetting committee of at least ten external specialists, professional trade association members, scientists, and archaeologists: Our Vetting Process
AUCTIONS:
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Byzantine Gold Filigree Pendant
6th-8th century A.D.Estimate: £200 - 300 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £100
Capsule pendant with domed ends and openwork filigree bands between, ribbed suspension tube, granule finials. 0.91 grams, 15 mm
From a late Japanese specialist collector, 1970-2000s. -
Byzantine Gold Ring with Red Gemstone
4th-6th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £1,820
With slender hoop and ellipsoid bezel flanked at each shoulder by two granules, beaded wire collar, inset intaglio olive tree flanked by bullrushes. 3.79 grams, 17.74 mm overall, 14.14 mm internal diameter
Private collection of Mr S.A., Switzerland, 1990s, thence by descent. -
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Byzantine Gold Ring with Holy Rider
6th-7th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £5,980
Comprising a round-section hoop with tablet-bezel depicting a military saint on horseback (probably Saint George) advancing right, the nimbate saint holding a large cross in his right hand. 4.00 grams, 21.79 mm overall, 18.33 mm internal diameter (approximate size British O 1/2, USA 7 1/4, Europe 15.61, Japan 15)
Ex Axia Art, London, UK. Property of a North American gallery. Accompanied by a positive scientific statement from Striptwist Limited, a London-based company run by historical precious metal specialist Dr Jack Ogden, reference number 170705. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate no.12117-214328.
This type of ring belongs to a typical category of the period in question, made with high-quality materials, and decorated with images of saints to invoke their protection. The presence of Saint George on this ring could refer to an owner of high military rank.
