ca. 600–800 AD. Byzantine. Cast-bronze reliquary made from three parts: two crosses that fit together, and a large loop for suspension. One cross face displays a stylised incision depicting a saint while the other displays a vertical circular decoration and the inscription 'MH XD H?'; this type of cross can be opened to hold a small relic or a prayer document. Relics, as the physical remains of saints or objects associated with Christ, held tremendous power in medieval Christianity.Provenance: From the private collection of a Central London gentleman; previously in a collection formed on the UK/European art market before 2000.Size: L:100mm / W:45mm ; 85.7g