Merovingian Gold Cloisonne Pendant
Late 7th century A.D. In the shape of a beetle(?) with a flat surface on one side, and divided on the other side by five spaces intended for cloisonne insertions; small loop for suspension in the upper part. Cf. a pendant of similar dimensions and typology in Various, Die Franken, Wegbereiter Europas, Mainz, 1996, p.1023, no.6.c. 0.68 grams, 15 mm (5/8 in.).

From a late Japanese specialist collector, 1970-2000s.

The cloisonne decoration, probably of Constantinopolitan origin, became an object of local production in the Merovingian kingdom since the 6th century A.D. Decorative objects of this type are common in female and male tombs, intended for the ornamentation of belts and household objects, arms and clothing.