ITEM: Horse harness fitting depicting saint with cross
MATERIAL: Bronze
CULTURE: Byzantine
PERIOD: 5th - 7th Century A.D
DIMENSIONS: 68 mm x 66 mm
CONDITION: Good condition
PROVENANCE: Ex Austrian private collection, acquired in the 1990s

Comes with Certificate of Authenticity and Export Licence. If you are from outside the European Union, we will have to apply for the export licence again for your country, this takes 3 to 5 weeks and has a cost of 5% of the hammer price, this amount will be added to the final invoice.

A horse harness fitting depicting a saint with a cross from the Byzantine period is a notable example of the intersection between art, religion, and practical objects in Byzantine culture. These fittings were part of the elaborate horse tack used by the elite, including military commanders and high-ranking officials. The depiction of a saint, often associated with Christian iconography, on such a fitting serves both a decorative and symbolic function. It highlights the Byzantine emphasis on integrating religious elements into everyday objects, reflecting the strong influence of Christianity in all aspects of life during this period.

The craftsmanship of Byzantine horse harness fittings is remarkable for its attention to detail and the use of materials such as gold, silver, or enamel. The saintly figures depicted on these fittings were often rendered with a high degree of artistry, showcasing the skills of Byzantine metalworkers and jewelers. The imagery typically included a saint holding a cross, which served not only as a religious symbol but also as a sign of divine protection for the rider and their horse. The cross itself, a prominent symbol of Christianity, emphasized the sanctity of the individual and their commitment to the faith, linking the secular use of the harness fitting with spiritual significance.

These artifacts also provide valuable insights into Byzantine social and military customs. The presence of religious imagery on horse harness fittings indicates the importance of faith in public and ceremonial life. Such fittings were often worn during official events, military parades, or religious processions, underscoring their role in both secular and sacred contexts. The use of religious symbolism on these practical items also reflects the broader Byzantine practice of imbuing everyday objects with spiritual meaning, reinforcing the pervasive influence of Christianity throughout Byzantine society.