Byzantine Silver Cross Pendant with Cabochon

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.

Fragment of an icon depicting a facing saint modelled in the half-round within an arch; an ellipsoid low-relief face with hatched collar-length hair, lentoid eyes with pointillé pupils flanking a long nose; wearing a lamellar cuirass (klivanion); stylised sword (spathion) to the shoulder with lobe pommel, piriform blade with hatched median bar and undulations to the flanks (simulating damascening); arch resting on a balustered column with shallow fixing socket above the saint's head; mounted on a custom-made stand. 60 grams total, icon: 72 mm high



Jacques and Henriette Schumann collection, Paris, France. with Christie's, Paris, France, 30 September 2003, no.248. European private collection. Accompanied by a copy of French passport no.061301, dated 3 September 2003. Accompanied by an academic report by Dr Raffaele D'Amato. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by a search certificate number no.12690-234660. This lot has been cleared against the Art Loss Register database, and is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D'Amato.

Jacques and Henriette Schumann were distinguished Parisian collectors known for their discerning taste and passion for antiquities and decorative arts. Their collection, assembled over several decades, reflected a deep appreciation for cultural heritage and historical significance. Works from their collection have been included in major European auctions and are recognised for their provenance and quality.

Slipper-shaped in plan with a low rim around the filler hole, a stub nozzle, a lug handle to the rear, radiating linear decoration to the shoulder and cross-and-pellets to the nozzle, low basal ring. 65 grams, 84 mm



From a collection of lamps of a late Scottish gentleman, 1970-1990s.