11th C. Byzantine Iron / Bronze Processional Cross

**First Time At Auction**

Near East, Holy Land, Byzantine Empire, ca. 11th to 13th century CE. A fine processional iron cross with leaded-bronze details. The cross has 4 thick arms presented atop a slender shaft. The arms flare outward and terminate with bronze disc shaped embellishments welded to each corner. In the center is an applied iron cross with petaloid arms and circular bezels on each tip that may have once contained semi-precious stones or colorful glass. Processional crosses like this example would be mounted atop slender wooden poles for all to witness during religious, military, and even imperial processions. The surface has developed a nice russet patina over the ages! Size: 22.5" L x 12.75" W (57.2 cm x 32.4 cm); 23.5" H (59.7 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: East Coast collection, New York Gallery, New York City, New York, USA, acquired before 2010

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Display stands not described as included/custom in the item description are for photography purposes only and will not be included with the item upon shipping.

#157780
Condition Report: Losses to bronze discs on arm tips and center. Perforations and indentations to remaining embellishments. Losses to central bronze cross embellishment and missing the material in the bezels. Surface pitting and age expected wear and chips. Rich russet patina throughout.