Ancient Near East, Holy Land, Byzantine Empire, ca. 7th to 10th century CE. A petite cast bronze ring stamp likely meant to hang from a key ring or a necklace. The body is thick and square, the stamp side displaying an incised depiction of a saintly figure flanked by a pair of crosses, with a small suspension loop on the verso. Stamps like this example were used to authenticate documents and religious mandates and to ensure that forgeries of the documents could not be produced. This stamp is covered in smooth areas of green and dark-brown patina. Custom museum-quality display stand included. Size: 0.7" H (1.8 cm); 1.55" H (3.9 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection

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#133160

Age-commensurate surface wear, small nicks to peripheries and ring, and light fading to incised details, otherwise intact and very good. Light earthen deposits within recessed areas, and nice green and brown patina throughout.