{"product_id":"medieval-bronze-encolpion-cross-offering-11th-13th-c-ce","title":"Medieval Bronze Encolpion-Type Cross - 'Offering' (11th–13th c. CE)","description":"\u003cp\u003eA Medieval bronze cross pendant named 'Offering', with recessed linear crosses and surviving pale and dark-blue-looking channel remnants, presenting Christian faith through restrained geometric decoration.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe Motif:\u003cbr\u003eRecessed cross motifs run along both faces, following the arms of the pendant rather than forming a separate portrait field. Pale metallic-looking material survives in part of one design, while a short darker blue-looking strip remains on the other. These remnants give the linear ornament a contrast of colour and surface. The movable suspension sits above the narrow body and its simple cross design. In Christian practice, the emblem refers to salvation and protection; repeating it on both sides gives the pendant a clear devotional focus without a figural scene.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDetails:\u003cbr\u003eMaterial: Bronze\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: Overall height: 38 mm; Width: 17 mm; Thickness: 4 mm\u003cbr\u003eWeight: 6.6 g\u003cbr\u003eCondition: Recessed cross channels with pale and dark-blue-looking remnants; movable suspension; coloured surface deposits remain.\u003cbr\u003eProvenance: Private collection, the Netherlands; acquired by Aurora Antiqua in September 2026.\u003cbr\u003eUnique Identifier: P-45-B\u003cbr\u003eAuthenticity: Comes with certificate of authenticity\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCondition and Authenticity:\u003cbr\u003eOffered in its present condition. A Certificate of Authenticity is included.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHistorical Context:\u003cbr\u003eThe attribution follows comparison with published examples. Linear cross decoration could turn a plain devotional pendant into a more elaborate object through recessed channels and contrasting material. Sedova (1981), p. 57, Fig. 18:5, gives a family comparison for a simple-cross design on both sides of a published hinged cross. Its silver inlay belongs to that published specimen, while this pendant retains its own pale and dark remnants. The movable suspension rises above the narrow body and its linear cross ornament. The Christian cross remains the central depiction, joining an ornamental treatment with a familiar expression of faith and prayer.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIts recessed lines and contrasting remnants give the simple Christian cross a distinct decorative presence.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eExplore more \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/orthodox-crosses-encolpia\"\u003ecrosses and encolpia\u003c\/a\u003e from our collection.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Aurora Antiqua","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":63775830507850,"sku":"P-45-B","price":450.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0897\/7140\/9738\/files\/p-45-b-bronze-cross-pendant-object-view-2-2.jpg?v=1790931579","url":"https:\/\/auroraantiqua.com\/products\/medieval-bronze-encolpion-cross-offering-11th-13th-c-ce","provider":"Aurora Antiqua","version":"1.0","type":"link"}