EUROPEAN CONVERT’S CROSS NECKLACE, 9th-10th CENTURY
A4203
Regular price
$180.00
Sale
The emergence from the Dark Ages is embodied in the rise to power of the Frankish King, Charlemagne in 768 (founder of the Holy Roman Empire after 800) followed by conquering southern Europe from France to Italy and much of Northern Europe. The condition for peace was acceptance of Christianity, under penalty of death. Conversion was effective and Northern Europeans, primarily Saxons, wore a small cross to affirm their Christianity. This example is over 1” in height with a cross beam above the center, spherical beam terminals, and a block at the junction with saltire (weak) to each side. Surface textured from burial. Professionally refurbished with pure silver overlay restored on a Sterling silver neck chain for modern wear.