Ca. 1200 AD or later. A magnificent silver-gilt reliquary cross that captures the beauty and symbolism of medieval Christianity. This cross pendant is composed of two cruciform plaques that fit together, with a hinged mechanism to the top and bottom and a loop for suspension. One face displays the crucified Christ with his arms outstretched, and above him, the Christogram "HC XC" representing the Greek abbreviation for "Jesus Christ". The other face displays the Mother of God ("MH ΘΥ") in orans pose, a position of prayer, with her arms extended upward and open, representing her intercession on behalf of humanity. The 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, and possessing a relic was believed to bring the owner closer to God.Size: L:115mm / W:52mm ; 130gProvenance: Private London collection.