Lot 128A
Roman to Byzantine, ca. 3rd to 12th century CE. A compact treasury of faith and empire, this engaging group unites 15 Roman to Byzantine bronze coins with 3 Byzantine bronze, brass, or copper alloy crucifix pendants, spanning Late Antiquity into the medieval Christian world. The coins, struck in copper and billon, bear softened imperial portraits, Christian emblems, and timeworn legends. One particularly evocative example depicts Romulus and Remus suckled by the she-wolf beneath a fig tree - one of the most enduring images of Rome's foundation myth. This reverse type, popular in the 4th century CE, linked contemporary emperors to the city's legendary origins, a reminder that even in an age of Christian ascendancy, Rome still looked back to its mythic past. Other pieces reflect the gradual transformation of imperial iconography, with crosses and Christian motifs emerging alongside traditional imperial busts. Size of largest (crucifix): 1.5" W x 2.5" H (3.8 cm x 6.4 cm)
The three cruciform pendants, each cast in copper alloy with integral suspension loops, speak to the devotional life of the Byzantine world. One features a standing saint in relief, another presents the crucified Christ framed by rounded terminals and linear ornament, while a third arranges sacred figures within the arms of the cross in a manner characteristic of Byzantine pectoral crosses. Their green and brown patinas attest to age and burial, and their forms reflect the widespread use of such pendants as personal expressions of faith and protection. Together, these objects offer a vivid cross section of a world in transition - where the wolf of Rome and the cross of Byzantium coexisted in metal, carried in purse and worn at the chest. A compelling assemblage for collectors of ancient numismatics and early Christian devotional art.
Provenance: private Dallas, Texas, USA collection
All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.
A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.
We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.
SHIPPING EXCEPTIONS: Due to customs clearance issues, we are unable to ship to Germany, Switzerland and Australia. If you live in Germany, Switzerland or Australia, you will need to provide an alternate shipping destination, or we will not be able to complete your purchase. In addition, please note that we are unable to ship ancient items back to the original country of origin (Egyptian to Egypt, Greek to Greece, etc.)
PAYMENT EXCEPTION: Unless a known customer of Artemis, payment for all gold / precious metal / gem lots must be made via Bank Wire Transfer or Certified Bank Check/Money Order, no exceptions.
#199710
- Condition: Weathering with abrasions and loss of detail as shown. Chipping to edges of some coins. Crosses are wearable with modern suspension ring on largest cross. Rich patina throughout.
Accepted Forms of Payment:
American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Money Order / Cashiers Check, Personal Check, Visa, Wire Transfer
Shipping
Bidder Can Make Shipping Arrangements, Local Pick-Up, In-House Shipping
Artemis Fine Arts
View full terms and conditions
| From: | To: | Increments: |
|---|---|---|
| $0 | $749 | $25 |
| $750 | $1,499 | $50 |
| $1,500 | $2,999 | $100 |
| $3,000 | $7,499 | $250 |
| $7,500 | $14,999 | $500 |
| $15,000 + | $1,000 |