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LOT 1316
Byzantine Bronze Polycandelon Hanger Chain with Cross
5TH-7TH CENTURY A.D.
34 1/4 in. (372 grams, 87 cm).
Comprising a substantial link chain with a large cross composed of two rivetted plates.
ProvenanceEx German art market, 2000s.
Acquired from an EU collector living in London.
From the collection of a Surrey, UK, gentleman.
Cf. Marin, E., Salona Christiana, Split, 1994, no.2 p.284, for a similar bronze cross (inv.no.H5735).
FootnotesPolycandela were basically ring-shaped devices, hung from chains, pierced with circular holes to accommodate the stems of glass lamps. These suspended chandeliers, formed by two perforated concentric circles, held glass lamps filled with oil and having a metal wick holder inside. Crosses were often attached to polycandela, as elements of connection of the chains, a system still used in the actual Oriental churches.
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AUCTIONS:
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Byzantine Lead Pilgrim's Koutrouvion Holy Water Flask with Saint
14th-15th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £143
With discoid body and cylindrical neck, two lateral small suspension handles; obverse with low-relief facing image of Saint Demetrios with cloak and spear, reverse with Saint Theodora in monastic garments; hatched bands to borders, flange to lower edge; a myrrh flask (koutrouvion). 81.1 grams, 73 mm
From a retired Lincolnshire, UK, gentleman's collection, a long time member of the Pewter Society.
For the Byzantines, koutrouvia were vessels made of clay or lead in which pilgrims carried the aromatic oil (myrrh) which they acquired from the cult centres of saints. -
Byzantine Bronze Plaque with Warrior Saint
Circa 6th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £338
Rectangular with rounded corners and pierced lug to each short side; low-relief scene with a horseman brandishing a spear against an infantryman with spear and shield; foliage and baseline. 8.82 grams, 58 mm
From the collection of a gentleman, acquired on the London art market in the 1990s. -
Byzantine Bronze Reliquary Cross Pendant Plate
Circa 10th-12th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £52
The enkolpion with hinge-loops, nimbate figure in orans pose at the centre, flanked by nimbate busts. 7.50 grams, 42 mm
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