Christian Bronze Cross w figure of Christ - c 8-10th Cent AD

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Early Christian Bronze Cross - Eastern Roman/Byzantine

8th - 10th Century AD

Fine dark patina with brown overtones (Size: 60 x 34mm – 2 ¼ x 1 3/8’’ – Weight:  13.89gm)

Front: Stylized full-length engraved figure of robed Christ, with arms extended (orans).

Back: Undecorated.

By the 5th and 6th centuries, the Cross had replaced the Chi-Rho as the standard emblem of Christian religious devotion. Its meaning transcended that of the simple monogram to visually recall the crucifixion. Crosses were worn by individuals from every social stratum, from the elaborate bejeweled golden cross of the patriarch to the simple crosses of the common man. The word crusade, which is derived from the Latin crux (cross), is a reference to the biblical injunction that Christians carry their cross. Crusaders wore a red cross sewn on their tunics to indicate they had assumed the cross and were soldiers of Christ. Many also wore a pectoral cross around their neck.

Byzantine depictions of Christ wearing a robe (colobium) are usually earlier than those with a loincloth. For robed examples see British Museum “Byzantium” Catalog #144, and exhibition catalog “Kreuz und Kruzifix” (Diocese Museum of Friesing, Germany, 2005), pgs 173-175. This is an unusual example with a very stylized figure of Christ, rendered with strong geometric lines. 

A well-crafted artifact in excellent condition, retaining its suspension loop so that it might be worn today, 1000-1200 years after it was produced.

  • Inventory# PA-3580
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