Preserved in exceptional condition, as a result of the circumstances of its burial. Gilt bronze. Just just 1" height, of elegant form. Centered cross beam with a raised edge circle enclosing a ghostly figure each side. A well known type. It is thought that these represent saints and were sold at shrines to those saints. Expanded terminals to the beams. The emergence from the Dark Ages is embodied in the rise to power of the Frankish King, Charlemagne in 768 (founder of the Holy Roman Empire after 800) followed by conquering southern Europe from France to Italy and much of Northern Europe. The condition for peace was the acceptance of Christianity, under penalty of death. The conversion was effective and Northern Europeans, primarily Saxons, wore small crosses to affirm their Christianity. Preserved in exceptional condition, as a result of the circumstances of its burial. Probably between the folds of a garment, chemically neutral and deprived of oxygen. Exceptional for these with the 24karat gold overlay refreshed on a modern gilt Sterling silver 18” neck chain. Jewelry gift boxed with certificate of authenticity.
