A rare early byzantine rutilated quartz intaglio. Cross.

6th century A.D.

17 x 19 x 4,5 mm

A cross is surrounded by a laurel wreath, and under the letter V (probably for VOT). The cross is engraved with very thin lines that round its perimeter; the wreath, intricately engraved with pointed leaves, is tied by two ribbons that hang elegantly downwards in the style of coins. Some gems with the depiction of the cross date back to the 5th century, also surrounded by a laurel wreath, very close to the style of the late imperial and early byzantine coinage (Heraclius, with Heraclius Constantine, 610-641. Solidus, Rev. VICTORIA AVGG A / CONOB Cross potent on base and two steps). Crosses as the central subject of the gem therefore appear from the 5th century on carnelian and garnet, in the sixth and seventh century generally on rock crystal, and on Sasanian Christian gems. The rarity and interest of this specimen is also increased by the mineral type of the gem (rutilated quartz, with thin golden thread-like inclusions, similar to rays) and by the large size. Wear marks, abrasions and slight cracks inside the stone.



U.K., private collection 80's.