A Byzantine Emerald Set Gold Cross, 5th/7th Century

with arms tapering towards the center and the terminals applied with plated rope chain and centered by a gold bead, the cone-shaped, raised central section fitted with a cabochon emerald surrounded by beading, the reverse with a raised beaded knop, with oblong suspension hoop, formerly a ring, engraved with a cross on the reverse, together with a herringbone mesh gold chain with clasp.

Collection of M. Herzfelder

Marcel Platt, Paris, purchased 1964

William R. Tyler, Director of Dumbarton Oaks, Washington, DC, 1969 to 1977

Thence by descent and Sold, Sotheby's New York, January 24, 2008, lot 130

Wear and arms of cross slightly bent. Wear to surface of emerald. Needs cleaning. Clasp bent. Chain associated.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

For similar examples, see M. C. Ross, Catalogue of the Byzantine and Early Medieval Antiquities in the Dumbarton Oaks Collection, Vol II, Washington, 1965, nos. 18, 101 and 179I.