982 - Golden cross with delicate filigree work, Early Byzantine, 6th–7th centuries A.D.

Golden cross with delicate filigree work, Early Byzantine, 6th–7th centuries A.D. A miniature golden cross in the shape of a paw-shaped cross, made of 4-mm-high strips of sheet metal along the edge. At the corners of the cross arms are profiled wires representing pseudo-tubes with pseudo-rivets featuring spherical heads. Medallions are attached to the ends of the cross arms. The medallions and cross arms are set with granulation along the edges of the border sheet metal, which frames the edges of the front and back of the cross. Within this border is filigree made of gold bands approximately 1 mm high, mostly formed into figure-eight loops. In the center of the cross arms are twisted, fine wires shaped like an inverted bishop’s crozier. In the center of the cross is a tall setting made of gold sheet, containing a mugel-cut garnet cabochon. Soldered to the sides of the setting are four tubes of spirally twisted gold wire. At the top of the cross is another such eyelet with a larger diameter, serving as a mounting for the pendant. Height: 3.1 cm. An exceptionally fine and sophisticated piece of goldsmithing in outstanding condition. CULTURAL HERITAGE! Condition: I -