{"product_id":"medieval-bronze-encolpion-cross-supplication-10th-14th-c-ce","title":"Medieval Bronze Encolpion Cross - 'Supplication' (10th–14th c. CE)","description":"\u003cp\u003eA Medieval bronze encolpion cross named 'Supplication', with lobed terminals, paired projections and worn figures on opposing faces, suspended from an articulated fitting.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe Motif:\u003cbr\u003eRounded terminal lobes and paired projections shape the outline, with an articulated suspension above the upper arm. Worn figures occupy both faces, including a haloed, long-robed figure on one side. Their decoration follows the cross-shaped body rather than a separate circular icon field, bringing sacred imagery into the very form of the emblem. Each face has its own figural focus, while the lobed arms frame the composition. Within Christian devotion, the cross and its figures join the associations of faith, salvation and intercession in an object for personal prayer.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDetails:\u003cbr\u003eMaterial: Bronze\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: Overall height: 57 mm; Width: 25 mm; Thickness: 5 mm\u003cbr\u003eWeight: 10.8 g\u003cbr\u003eCondition: Opposing figures softened; lobed terminals and paired projections preserved; articulated suspension present; surface deposits remain.\u003cbr\u003eProvenance: Private collection, the Netherlands; acquired by Aurora Antiqua in September 2026.\u003cbr\u003eUnique Identifier: P-38-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. The external shell and joint structure links this piece with the encolpion tradition of cross-shaped reliquary cases. Kokorina (2013), Pectoral Crosses, p. 27, catalogue 14, is a family comparison for its lobed outline and paired projections. The published cross lacks its suspension head, so its complete hanging arrangement differs in preservation. Figural encolpia joined the cross with sacred depictions on opposing faces, giving the case a devotional role beyond its container design. The emphasis is on prayer and protection rather than decorative ornament alone.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe two figural faces bring the cross into the language of prayer, salvation and sacred intercession.\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":63775819727178,"sku":"P-38-B","price":450.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0897\/7140\/9738\/files\/p-38-b-bronze-encolpion-type-cross-object-view-2-2.jpg?v=1790931421","url":"https:\/\/auroraantiqua.com\/products\/medieval-bronze-encolpion-cross-supplication-10th-14th-c-ce","provider":"Aurora Antiqua","version":"1.0","type":"link"}