Mixed Copper-alloy Artefact Collection

The Virgin holding the infant Christ, gesturing towards him with her right hand, wearing a carmine red maphorion embellished with golden pearled embroidery, elaborate cuffs and neckline to the himation; Christ making the blessing sign with his hand, the green chiton and orange himation embellished with red folds; both figures nimbate within a shallow recess and framed by a red border, inscription 'ΜΡ ΘΥ' for 'Mother of God' flanking the Virgin's halo, 'IC XC' for 'Jesus Christ' over the Child’s head; winged nimbate ‘Angel of God’ and nimbate Saint Matrona in rectangular panels on either side; split and repaired. 896 grams, 31.2 cm



Ex French gallery, Paris.

For the Orthodox believers, the Mother of God (Theotokos) carries a special meaning. The believers relate to her as a mother who suffered and lived through the death of her son, a figure not only of love and compassion, but also of fortitude and sacrifice.

Ellipsoid bezel with claw setting for a polychrome glass bead, lion motif to the underside, stud beneath the hoop; glass cabochon possibly an ancient glass bead made by folding melting glass. 6.63 grams, 30.60 mm overall, 18.57 mm internal diameter (approximate size British Q, USA 8, Europe 17.49, Japan 16)



Acquired by the vendor's father on the UK art market, before 1990.

Composed of quatrefoil and biconical lapis beads, interspersed with blue glass beads of different types; restrung. 25 grams, 80 cm long



Ex W.J. collection, 1990s.