Early Byzantine Gold Earring

Culture: Byzantine

Period: 5th century A.D.

Material: Gold

Dimensions: 6.8 cm high; 3.4 gram

Price: Sold

Ref: 3582

Provenance: Collection Karawani, Paris, France, acquired in the 1970s. Thence in a family estate.

Condition: Intact

Description: Very high-quality, gold earring worked out in open technique dating to the early Byzantine period. The moon-shaped central part with a delicate wavy rim depicts dense floral ornaments which turn into volutes. In the lower part five bronze rings, which merge into two arms, are soldered. Multi-part small gold chains with leaf-shaped attachments hang in these rings. The leaves tapering and rolled in at the end. On top two more small gold sheets are soldered. One with an 8-shaped eyelet, the other one with a high towering, semi-circular wire whose end wraps around the eyelet. This earring is still wearable today. It is recommended to have a modern pin custom-made to avoid opening the ancient clasp. The earring could also be worn as an amulet today.