Description:

AN EXCEEDINGLY RARE INSCRIBED CHALCEDONY & GOLD GEM-SET ICON DEPICTING THE VIRGIN MARY, CIRCA 7TH–9TH CENTURY A.D. OR LATER, BYZANTINE

This remarkable Byzantine pendant icon features a central chalcedony intaglio finely carved with the Virgin Mary, shown in the traditional style with hands crossed over her chest. Greek letters, likely abbreviating "Mother of God" (ΜΡ ΘΥ), flank her head. The chalcedony is set in an ornate gold frame, intricately worked, with a stylised face or mask incorporated into the suspension bail. The icon is further embellished with a prominent drop-shaped amethyst at the base, surrounded by faceted emeralds and pale purple or clear beads—possibly sapphires or amethysts—encircling the central image.

The reverse displays a Byzantine gold medallion or enkolpion, embossed with the Virgin Mary, probably in the orans pose, with the Greek monograms "MP ΘV" on either side of her haloed head. The medallion is adorned with rectangular green emeralds and elongated translucent beads, likely sapphires, around its edge. A large, irregular amethyst drop is suspended from the bottom, enhancing the pendant’s decorative and protective qualities. This piece exemplifies the religious devotion and technical mastery of Byzantine craftsmanship, prized for both spiritual significance and artistic merit.

Measurements:
Diameter of icon: 4.5cm
Diameter in setting: 6cm
Total length with drop gem: 9.3cm
Weight: 61g

Provenance:
French Private Collection, circa 1985, thence by descent.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

MasterCard, Visa, Wire Transfer

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July 9, 2025 1:00 PM BST
London, United Kingdom

PLAKAS

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