A Published Byzantine Gold, and Garnet Medallion, Byzantine Empire, ca. 4th - 6th century CE Medium - Copper Dimensions: Length: 1 3/4 inches

Dimensions:  Length: 1 3/4 inches (4

2199–2119 BCE)

thereafter private Virginia collection

likely intended as symbolic embellishments

A Published Byzantine Gold, and Garnet Medallion, Byzantine Empire, ca. 4th - 6th century CE Medium - Copper Dimensions: Length: 1 3/4 inchesThis exceptional gold medallion is crafted from 24K sheet gold and meticulously hammered in the repouss technique to depict a frontal female head, likely representing Aphrodite, portrayed in a so called "barbaric" style. Her broad, simplified features are surrounded by hair arranged beneath a Phrygian cap, with a dotted beaded border framing her face. Below the chin, four small triangular granulated pendants hang, creating the appearance of a jeweled