EUROPEAN CONVERT’S CROSS NECKLACE, 9th-10th CENTURY
A8344
Regular price
$265.00
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 1/4” height with cross beam centered, spherical beam terminals, and a block at the junction pierced with an inner cross. The only such example we have seen. The crossed beam-ends comprise five crosses in one and in all, six with the pierced center cross. Surface textured from burial. Professionally refurbished with 24karat gold overlay restored on a gilt neck chain for modern wear.