Necklace with Gold Marriage Medallion and Hematite Amulet

Unknown

400–450 (medallion); 100–200 (amulet) · Gold, hematite · Medieval Art

The marriage of the two figures on the gold pendant is blessed by Christ who holds wreaths over their heads, a Christian variation of a pagan motif. The hematite pendant with its solar deity was probably attached for its healing qualities. This work was part of a hoard found at the base of the Capitoline Hill, the center of commercial activity in Rome even after the transfer of the imperial capital to Constantinople. The jewelry was probably hidden during the sack of Rome by the Visigoths in 410 or the Vandals in 455.

Artist

Unknown

Date

400–450 (medallion); 100–200 (amulet)

Medium

Gold, hematite

Culture

Byzantine

Department

Medieval Art

Credit line

Rogers Fund, 1958