Medieval / Renaissance Silver Gilt Tau Crucifix Pendant Cross

Code: 10189

This is a nice Renaissance silver gilt Tau cross crucifix pendant, dating to the late 15th - early 16th century A.D. This example has been well loved for a lifetime or more, missing the suspension loop and several trefoil clusters.

The Tau cross is known as the cross of St. Anthony, worn by the Knights Hospitallers and those seeking healing. A 15th-century example in gold is held by The Metropolitan Museum of Art (1990.283a, b).

This example may once have hung from a paternoster, a popular form of rosary during this period. 

OBJECT: Tau Cross Pendant

CULTURE: Renaissance

DATE: c. 15th century A.D.

MATERIAL: Silver-gilt

SIZE: 16.74mm x 18mm x 3mm

WEIGHT: 1.71 grams

PROVENANCE: Ex. European Private Collection