209 - Large Byzantine Gold Ring of The Crucifixion with Mary and St John Holding Censers. The Kal Noselson Byzantine Collection (Lots 197-221 & 1396-1447)

Large Byzantine Gold Ring of The Crucifixion with Mary and St John Holding Censers. The Kal Noselson Byzantine Collection (Lots 197-221 & 1396-1447) Circa 9th century A.D. With flat-section faceted hoop, incuse legend '+K???E B[??]?EI TOY TIC ??POYCIA+' between pointill borders; ellipsoid plaque with crucifixion scene, 'IPIN?' in exergue. Cf. Wamser, L., Die Welt von Byzanz - Europas stliches Erbe, M nchen, 2004, item 639, for the shape. 5.41 grams, 20.78 mm overall, 19.12 mm internal diameter (approximate size British N 1/2, USA 6 3/4, Europe 14.35, Japan 13) (3/4 in.). [A video of this lot is available to view on TimeLine Auctions Website] (For this specific lot, 5% import VAT is applicable on the hammer price.) Private collection of Kal Noselson, New York, acquired between 1976 and the late 1990s; thence by descent. Accompanied by an original loan agreement dated 2 April 1997 for US$18,000. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate no.13422-259838. The inscription 'K???E B[??]?EI TOY TIC ??POYCIA+' = 'Lord helps the wearer of this' is indicative of the devotional and protective character of the ring. The word 'IPIN?' (peace) at the feet of the Cross invokes the words of Christ in John 14:27 (Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you). TimeLine Auctions follows a rigorous vetting process to ensure the authenticity and legality of all items, reinforcing our commitment to integrity and responsible trading. Each antiquity, antique, and coin lot undergoes thorough examination by a vetting committee of at least ten external specialists, professional trade association members, scientists, and archaeologists. See our website for more information.