CIRCA 6TH CENTURY A.D.

This cross pendant is cast in a simple shape, with limbs of rectangular cross-section, each gently tapering toward the centre and a cylindrical suspension hoop at the top. Every side and edge is densely inscribed in Greek letters with biblical references such as abbreviated names of angels and prophets, reading: ‘Jesus Christ, (St) John, (St) George’; ‘Michael, Gabriel’ (archangels); ‘Moses, Aaron, …’; ‘The godly Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, ichor [= blood of Christ?]’ etc.
Although the practice of engraving personal items of jewellery, such as pendants and rings, with names of Saints or short passages from the Bible was common in the Byzantine period, the present example appears remarkable both for the length of the text and for the use of every surface available. For another simple gold cross pendant engraved with niello on both sides see inv. no. BZ.1953.12.21 in the Dumbarton Oaks Collection.