★ Very Fine Cross ★

A FINE DECORATED EARLY BYZANTINE GOLD CROSS
Circa 5th-7th century AD.
Highly elaborate gold cross with filigree decoration and a central medallion set with glass. The hollow cross is composed of sheet metal soldered together. The inside of the suspension loop is supported by glass to strengthen the construction. Compared to the Late Roman period, Early Byzantine gold objects are very rare. The lower arm of the cross was cracked/slightly bent and has been repaired.
H 53 mm; Gold! 17.24 g

Ex old European private collection.