Byzantine, 7th/ 8th century

Czech private collection, since the early 1980s

Overall the condition of the gold is good with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There are minor nicks and scratches to the gold throughout, including a few particular clusters of nicks to the left side of the top of the cross. There is a restored nick to the bottom edge of the gem, and a few further small nicks and scratches. The stone may have been reset, and there are traces of adhesive around the edges. There may be some restoration to the base of the clasp on the necklace. One of the small links on the necklace may have snapped.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Another solid gold cross with a similar bezel and suspension loop is in the collection at Dumbarton Oaks, Washington D.C. (inv. no. 58.39). The faceted arms can also be found on a nielloed example in the British Museum, London (inv. no. PE AF 355).

RELATED LITERATURE
M. C. Ross, Catalogue of the Byzantine and Early Medieval Antiquities in the Dumbarton Oaks Collection, cat. Dumbarton Oaks Collection, Washington, 1965, p. 137, no. 179I, pl. XCVII; R. Cormack and M. Vassilaki (eds.), Byzantium 330-1453, exh. cat. Royal Academy of Arts, London, 2008, pp. 224-225 and p. 428, no. 193