A Byzantine Gold Repousee Pendant, Late 6th–7th century CE

A fine Byzantine gold pendant of teardrop form, fashioned from high-karat gold and elaborately decorated in repoussé with finely chased details. The central pear-shaped medallion contains a frontal female bust with large, expressive eyes, a small mouth, and an elaborate coiffure, the hair arranged in prominent rounded sections framing either side of the face and surmounted by an ornate headdress. The figure appears to wear a decorated garment with an ornamented neckline or necklace, the details carefully rendered in relief.

Surrounding the bust is a broad decorative border of scrolling leafy vines interspersed with birds, their forms incorporated into the flowing vegetal design. The composition is framed by finely beaded borders, which separate the central portrait from the surrounding ornament and emphasize the elegant teardrop shape of the pendant. The combination of figural imagery, birds, and scrolling foliage reflects decorative traditions that continued from the Late Roman into the Early Byzantine period. A lovely example. 

Medium: Gold

Dimensions: Height: 1 3/4 in (4.45 cm)

Condition: The pendant is intact and in very good condition overall with well-preserved repoussé decoration and minor surface wear consistent with age. Matched with an 18 inch antique gold chain of 9K gold.

Provenance: Private NYC collection, acquired prior to 1990.

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