Large Copper Bowl with Script

Two types of two-pronged forks, one with a cylindrical handle carved with a geometric band around the top; one formed with a tapering round-section handle. 59 grams total, 16.3-16.6 cm



Found Billingsgate spoil from the Thames foreshore, London, UK.

Presenting a scalloped frame and bifacial black enamelled detailing: one side with the Crucifixion scene, niello 'IC XC' in the field, two saints at the foot of the cross, scrolling borders; the reverse with 'IC XC / NI KA' over two lines with cross between; articulate and facetted loop. 30.9 grams, 51 mm



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

A small reliquary pendant, possibly containing the remains of cloth or bone of a saint. The relics had to be kept in containers that expressed the dignity of their contents: chests, cases and, of course, reliquaries. This also applied to personal relics, often in the form of pendants, which were sometimes made in gold and silver.

With D-section hoop expanding at the shoulders to a facetted bezel, openwork flower bud to each shoulder, incised hatched triangles to the scooped facets above, 'MORS' inscribed to the upper panel, 'SOIFI' to the lower; pale gold insert to central cell engraved with a skull amid entwined snakes. 10.11 grams, 26.62 mm overall, 18.12 mm internal diameter (approximate size British P, USA 7 1/2, Europe 16.23, Japan 15)

Fine condition. Resized.

Acquired since before 1970. Ex private collection of a West Sussex, UK, collector.