Description:

Eastern Europe, Balkan region, Bulgarian or Greek, ca. early to mid-20th century CE. A devotional Orthodox Christian amulet case honoring Saint Demetrius of Thessaloniki, the famed Christian warrior-saint. The square brass reliquary box is decorated in repousse relief, depicting Saint Demetrius mounted on horseback, triumphing over an adversary - a symbol of divine protection and valor. A Golgotha cross, also known as a Calvary cross is etched on the verso. Along the upper edge is a sliding lid for inserting paper prayers, relics, or small charms, signifying its use as a personal spiritual safeguard. The lower border is adorned with five silver and copper coins from the Ottoman Empire, and the piece retains its original chain for wearing or hanging. Size of pendant + coins: 3.75" L x 2.5" W (9.5 cm x 6.4 cm); chain doubled: 24" L (61 cm); coin silver quality: 42% to 44%

Provenance: Private collection from The Estate of Francis and Marion Lederer, important Hollywood family, collected between 1930 and 1980

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.

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#199024

  • Condition: Dark patina and toning throughout. Softening to coins. The sliding lid is stuck and does not open. Chain is intact. Abrasions and wear to pendant, but motifs are well preserved.

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Shipping

Bidder Can Make Shipping Arrangements, Local Pick-Up, In-House Shipping

November 6, 2025 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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