Byzantine Rock Crystal Pendant with Cross

Of squat profile with flared base and drop handle; running tendril bands to the shoulder and base, gilt-inlaid frieze depicting the seated robed figure of Christ holding a staff between two palm trees in a landscape inhabited by a bear, leaping goat, frog, cockerel, hen, eagle, horse, hounds, sheep, lioness, snake, rabbit, duck, boar cow; trees in the background with birds perching on the branches; central roundel with Chi Rho, alpha and omega; handle with vine tendrils flanked by pellet clusters, saltire to the centre. 1.02 kg, 23 cm wide



From the family collection of Mr E.L. (1915-1991), who collected antiquities from the 1940s, thence by descent. Ex J.L. collection, Surrey, UK. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate no.12059-213551.

The frieze is full of Christian symbolism, mainly concentrated on the image of the good shepherd (Christ) depicted according to the model visible in the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia in Ravenna and shown on the opposite side of the central roundel. Jesus is represented in a landscape suffused with peace, full of plants and flowers; he has a serene expression and is depicted beardless and surrounded by six sheep. Its clear allusive meaning is that only through Christ can eternal peace be achieved. Another part probably represents the Tree of Life with an array of animals. The vessel probably had a liturgical use, perhaps for the ritual washing of feet during the Easter celebrations or for the blessing of the faithful.

Comprising an articulated strap, openwork finials with volute scrolls supporting the attachment loop. 17 grams, 87 mm



UK private collection. Acquired from York Antiques Centre, in 2001. Property of a Nottinghamshire gentleman.

Fitted with two channels running to a central circlet with the image of a saint cavalryman in the centre, surrounded by Greek letters A, O, O, E, C, OS, E, O; small holes to three of the corners for insertion of pegs. 136 grams, 79 mm



UK private collection before 2000. Acquired on the UK art market. Property of a London gentleman.

Plates from mid-period jewellery moulds (10th-12th centuries) with the imprint of the jewellery to be made carved into one or both of the surfaces (earrings, buckles, clasps, beads of necklaces, etc.) were usually made of graphite schist, or other rocks. The plates were bound together in twos or threes by lead pins and the liquid metal was injected via conical openings. Similar tools were found in the 10th-12th levels of Thessaloniki.