A highly unusual gold cross, Byzantine with a sapphire bead. The cross is formed of four square sectioned stanchions either cast in one piece or soldered at the centre. There is a round flat element which is soldered at the points where the arms meet to strengthen the structure. At the end of each arm are elaborate 'peltae' forms of flat gold wire soldered onto the ends of the cross. To support a filigreed ball at end extremity other flattened round patches are soldered to each ensemble. The backs of the top and side ends of the arms are also reinforced by sheet 'patches'. 35 by 22 mm. Weight: 7.4 gr. PROVENANCE Ex-European private collection acquired before 1970