Byzantine Processional Cross


While the history of Western Europe during the Medieval Period is dominated by the consolidation of what would become the principal European powers in the Renaissance (France, Britain, Austria, etc.), the history of Eastern Europe during this same period is dominated by the slow collapse of the Eastern Roman Empire. Often called Byzantium, the Eastern Roman Empire continued to exist long after the collapse of the Western Roman Empire in the 5th century. Byzantium was the Medieval Rome, and would contrast harshly with our modern conception of Rome: the capital city was not Rome, nor did the Empire hold the Eternal City for large segments of its history; the most common language was Greek, not Latin, and Greek later came to replace Latin as the official language of Byzantine courts; and Byzantium was a deeply Christian empire. The devotion of the Byzantines to their religious beliefs led to the creation of some of the most breathtaking mosaics, sculptures, metalworks, and all assortments of mediums in all of Christian art, as well as periods of internal strife and fits of iconoclastic violence.




This cross is an example of the beauty of Byzantine art. It is made from silver, and is inlaid with several medallions depicting the archangels Gabriel and Michael, Saint John the Baptist, the Virgin Mary, and Jesus Christ (center). This particular cross is a processional cross. These were highly ceremonial, and were used in religious services, court processions, military ceremonies, and in times of great peril.

Byzantium is so often overlooked in the mainstream historical account of European development. Discovery and discussion of artifacts such as this help to showcase the rich culture, history, and splendor of Byzantium.

References:

“Byzantium.” Metmuseum.org, https://www.metmuseum.org/toah/hd/byza/hd_byza.htm.

Norwich, John Julius. A Short History of Byzantium. Vintage Books, 1999.

“Processional Cross.” Metmuseum.org, https://www.metmuseum.org/toah/works-of-art/1993.163/.


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