Byzantine Enkolpion Reliquary Cross

$413.97

A Byzantine bronze enkolpion cross featuring a hinged base and a suspension loop for wear. The cross is formed of two halves, with one side depicting Christ on the cross, whilst the other side features a figure in the Orans position; most likely Mary, the mother of Jesus. Faint markings in Greek can be seen between the suspended arms of Christ, inscribed as IC XC.

Date: Circa 10th - 12th century AD
Condition: Very fine

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A cross of this sort, also known as an ‘enkolpion’, could be worn as a pectoral cross, and was an attribute of bishops during the Middle Ages. Over the course of the centuries, many of these crosses were produced in such a way as to hold a secondary relic. They might contain, for example, relics which were alleged to be part of a saint’s clothing, pieces of the True Cross, or hair fragments. The cross was the most popular Christian symbol in Byzantium: it offered protection to the wearer and would have been available all over the Empire.

IC XC is a monogram for ᾽Ιησου̑ς Ξριστὸς, Jesus Christ. Often the word NIKA is also added and completes the phrase; Jesus Christ conquers.

Weight 18.8 g
Dimensions L 5.5 x W 2.2 cm
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