Byzantine Bronze Horse Harness Boss Pendant

Byzantine Bronze Horse Harness Boss Pendant

15th century A.D. Large domed centre with low-relief sun wheel design, pellets to the rim and suspension loop above. Cf. Papanikola-Bakirtzi, D. (ed.), Everyday life in Byzantium. Byzantine Hours. Works and days in Byzantium, Exhibition catalogue, Thessaloniki, White Tower October 2001-January 2002, Athens, 2002, no.488, for similar. 28.6 grams, 75 mm (3 in.).

From the collection of a North American gentleman, formed in the 1990s.

In the late Byzantium period, round-shaped buckles and horse harness mounts were often decorated with beaded edges and with floral embossed ornaments, under the influence of the Ottoman Turks. They have the shape of a small shield and impressed decoration of a rose. Belt appliques have an extra boss for attachment, instead of a loop which is usually attached to the horse harness pendants. [No Reserve] (For this specific lot, 5% import VAT is applicable on the hammer price.)