**Originally Listed At $2500**

Ancient Near East, Holy Land, Byzantine Empire, ca. 7th to 10th century CE. A beautiful buckle of a rectangular form comprised of 84% gold (equivalent to 20K+). A recessed bezel is surrounded by a petite serrated border and contains within it a slender nacre panel that is secured with four round-topped pins. A central rectangular boss comprised of 88% gold (equivalent to 21K+) displays a crucifix composed of gold granules that is surrounded by trios of additional granules in each corner, and additional, larger gold granules line the periphery of the buckle body. The buckle pin and loop are of a fleur-de-lis style, comprised of 86% gold (equivalent to 20K+) and suspended to the body via a slender pin; a stamped crucifix is visible on the front of the pin. Buckles like this example were an opulent means of embellishing upon pragmatic items and were typically made of gold, silver, and other luxurious materials. A modern gold-plated chain is included for wearability. Size: 1.125" W x 2" H (2.9 cm x 5.1 cm); gold quality: (body) 84% / 20K+; (buckle) 86% / 20K+; (central boss) 88% / 21K+; total weight: 23.8 grams

This piece has been searched against the Art Loss Register database and has been cleared. The Art Loss Register maintains the world's largest database of stolen art, collectibles, and antiques.

Provenance: private East Coast collection, New York, USA; ex-East Coast collection, New York Gallery, New York City, New York, USA, acquired before 2010

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

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#153431

Wearable as shown with addition of modern gold-plated chain. Loss to one round-topped pin as shown. Minor chips and hairline fissures to nacre panel, with slight bending to overall form of serrated periphery, buckle pin and loop, and body, with small casting flaws behind body, light encrustations, and minor abrasions. Light earthen deposits and nice patina throughout.