Byzantine Bronze Ring with Three Crosses of the Crucifixion

Expanding cross pendant with integral ribbed loop and a low-relief Corpus Christi on the obverse, suspended from a later fabric cord. 11.3 grams total, pendant: 53 mm



Acquired at the York Fair. Property of a Lancashire, UK, collector.

With inscription '+ΘKEB / OΘTO / ΔΟΛΟ / ΤΘΛΑ' for 'ΘΕΟΤΟΚΕ ΒΟΗΘΕI ΤΩ ΔΟΥΛΩ ΤΟΥ ΘΕΟΥ ΛΑΔΕ' (Mother of God, help Lades, the servant of God). 13.1 grams, 18 mm



From an important collection formed before 1988, London and Geneva.

The stamp seals that have survived in large numbers from Byzantium are objects a few centimetres high and conical in shape, featuring a sealing surface at the lower end and a pendant at the upper end. They served the same function as signet rings and were used to seal everyday objects, primarily for personal purposes, using wax and other soft materials.

Carved bust modelled in the half-round with large lentoid eyes and braided hair to the brow, depicting a disciple, an apostle, or a portrait; gold cell with band of granules to the outer edge, ribbed suspension loop with granule detailing. 8.97 grams, 39 mm



From a North American gentleman's collection, 1990s. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.13367-259037.

Towards the end of the 3rd century, the Roman production of gemstones decreased quickly. At the same time, early Christian motifs appeared on the gemstones. Rare motifs like the one in the current gemstone show portraits of noblewomen or men.