Fine Byzantine Leaded Bronze Candelabrum w/ Large Cross

Near East / Holy Land, Byzantine Empire, ca. 6th to 9th century CE. A beautiful, fascinating leaded bronze object from a wealthy Byzantine church or home - a round, spoke-like component of a candelabrum. A symmetrical, segmented, openwork motif gives the piece a clock-like appearance, as do the cogged edges, at least to the modern eye - but in antiquity, this leaded bronze disc would have been held by its 3 openwork chains, which are still present here, and suspended from a stand by the heavy hook. On this example, the three chains are brought together at a tall, flat cross. Openings in its arms suggest further attachments. Candles or lamps would have been set into the circular openings around the periphery of the flat disc. Size (when fully extended): 12" in diameter x 23.3" H (30.5 cm x 59.2 cm)

Bronze furniture and decorative art were luxury items in the eastern part of the Roman Empire, and the Byzantine Empire that followed, reserved only for the richest households. Even there, they seem to have been heirlooms; some scholars believe that they were passed down through multiple generations, gaining additions like crosses, new lids, or new feet to suit changing decorative styles. Imagine how the light would have played off of this when it was new and polished to shine!

This piece has been searched against the Art Loss Register database and has been cleared. The Art Loss Register maintains the world's largest database of stolen art, collectibles, and antiques.

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.

#143465
Condition Report: Intact and excellent. Impressively preserved with rich patina throughout. Chains are also intact and functional with good movement.