Byzantine Gold Cross Pendant

With ellipsoid bezel, incised Greek inscription with some of the letter inversed, reading 'ΧζΒΟ ΗϽΙΤΡ βOΥΛΟ'. 1.81 grams, 19.87 mm overall, 17.93 mm internal diameter (approximate size British N 1/2, USA 6 3/4, Europe 14.35, Japan 13)



Acquired 1980-2015. Ex Abelita family collection.

The meaning of the inscription is not clear, although it may be prophylactic, with the letter Chi (Χ) linked with the rho (P) i.e. XP for ‘Christ’ and the other letters referring to the usual expression βΟYTICΗ (protect) βOΥΛIΟ (Doulo? ), therefore intended to be read ‘Christ protect your servant’. The ring was probably engraved by a foreigner with a very limited understanding of Greek.

Large domed centre with low-relief sun wheel design, pellets to the rim and suspension loop above. 28.6 grams, 75 mm



From the collection of a North American gentleman, formed in the 1990s.

In the late Byzantium period, round-shaped buckles and horse harness mounts were often decorated with beaded edges and with floral embossed ornaments, under the influence of the Ottoman Turks. They have the shape of a small shield and impressed decoration of a rose. Belt appliques have an extra boss for attachment, instead of a loop which is usually attached to the horse harness pendants.

Discoid in form with integral loop, obverse with low-relief images of mounted Saint Sisinnios killing the demon Gyllou (Lilith), Agnus Dei, a stork, a lion, the holy snake Chnoubis and other symbols with Greek text between; reverse with a standing nimbate angel within a panel of Greek text from Psalm 91. 17.3 grams, 73 mm



From the collection of a gentleman, acquired on the London art market in the 1990s.

The text surrounding the angel recites the verses of Psalm 90 (Heb.91) in the ‘Great Reward Prayer’ (Μεγάλο Απόδειπνο): …Ο κατοικών εν βοηθεία τού Υψίστου, εν σκέπη τού Θεού τού ουρανού αυλισθήσεται. Ερεί τώ Κυρίω, Αντιλήπτωρ μου εί, καί καταφυγή μου… = …He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, 'He is my refuge and my fortress…'