Framed Byzantine Bronze Enkolpion Reliquary Cross with Christ and Saints

£ 450.00

A framed half of a Byzantine bronze reliquary cross, known as enkolpion, which in its entirety would feature a hinged base and a barrel-shaped suspension loop at the top to wear on a chain. The cross is one half of the pendant, decorated with images typical of Christian iconography. The piece depicts a crucified Christ between small figures of the Virgin Mary and St. John. His arms are outstretched upon the cross and a halo shines around his drooping head. He wears a collobium (a sleeveless or short-sleeved garment) with two clavi (bands), an iconographic type established in the early Christian centuries. An inscription is carved beneath each outstretched arm. Written in abbreviated Greek, it reads: ΙΔΕΟΥCCΟΥ, ΙΔOΥCΜΗΡCΟΥ (IDEOUSSOU, IDOUSMETERSOU), translating to “Behold your son, Behold your mother”. Above his head, is a cross executed in low relief, together with a sun disc and a crescent moon. The enkolpion has been placed inside the frame.

Approximate enkolpion measurements: W 5.5cm x H 8.3cm

NB: Measurements below include the frame.

Date: Circa 8th – 10th Century AD
Condition: Excellent condition. Some glue residue visible from attaching to the backing of the frame.

In stock

Enkolpia were small pendants worn around the neck, and examples have been found tracing back to Late Antiquity. The cross shape was the most popular symbol for such amulets, as the silhouette was believed to have apotropaic qualities. Many enkolpia were designed to hold reliquaries, as can be seen here by the opening function of the pendant. The reliquary was believed to work in tandem with the talismanic qualities of the cross-shape to protect the wearer from harm and evil. Such pieces were very popular in Byzantium, and were made in an assortment of materials, from gold and silver, to bronze and lead.

The Greek inscription seen on this piece refers specifically to the Bible verse John 19.26-27. Jesus, dying upon the cross, addresses his faithful disciple John and his mother, Mary, asking that they behold one another as mother and son.

To discover more about Byzantine art, please visit our relevant blog post: The Byzantine Empire, Art and Christianity.

Weight 502 g
Dimensions L 21.9 x W 16.9 x H 21.9 cm
Christian Ideology

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Culture

Region

Metal

Reference: For a similar item, please see The British Museum, item 1985,0305.1

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