The collapse of Iconoclasm during the mid 9th century AD initiated a gradual recovery of Byzantine religious art, which was testified on currency from the latter part of the reign of Michael II (842-67). This is demonstrated by the use of the bust, or enthroned figure of Christ on the obverse of Constantinopolitan coins. Copper alloy pieces bearing such iconography, as seen on this example, appeared in the 10th century AD and became known as the ‘Anonymous Bronze Coinage’. First issued by John I, they replaced folles with imperial portraits, which were only reintroduced almost a century later by Constantine X (1059-67). The Christ/inscription in the four line design of the ‘Anonymous Bronze’ remained unchanged until AD 1028, when these types became increasingly varied, with some showing the bust or figure of the Virgin or a highly ornate cross. This piece dates to the joint reign of Basil II and Constantine VIII (AD 976-1028), under which the Byzantine State reached the zenith of its power.
Byzantine Bronze ‘Head of Christ’ Follis Pendant with Silver Frame
£ 275.00
A Byzantine bronze ‘Head of Christ’ follis set within a modern silver frame to form a pendant. The front of the pendant features the coin’s obverse, which depicts the bust of Christ holding the book of gospels. The letters IC and XC are in the field at either side of the bust to indicate the mint. A nimbate cross is set behind his head, displaying a decorative motif to each limb. Part of the original inscription reading +EMMANOVHA is still visible around the top edge of the coin. The reverse bears the legend +IHSUS XRISTUS BASILEU BASILE, arranged in four lines. Written in the Latin alphabet, the Greek inscription translates as ‘Jesus Christ, King of Kings’. The coin is encased in a modern, thick, silver frame which develops to a suspension loop and connective ring at the top.
Condition: Very fine, patination and encrustation to the surface.
In stock
| Weight | 14.55 g |
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| Dimensions | L 3.8 x W 2.8 cm |
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