Ca. 900-1100 AD A bronze pendant in a form of a cross patoncé with four equal-length arms meeting in a disc at the centre. Each arm flares towards the pointed finial. The obverse embellished with niello decoration. A suspension loop projects from the top. The cross, the principal symbol of Christianity, recalls the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and the redeeming benefits of his Passion and death. The cross is thus a sign both of Christ himself and of the Christian faith. Size: L:33mm / W:28mm ; 4.85g Provenance: Property of an Oxfordshire art professional; previously in an old British collection, formed in the 1980s on the UK / International art markets.