CRUSADER'S CROSS PENDANT NECKLACE, 11TH-13TH CENTURY

1096-1291. Rare variant. Oval with a centered cross with cross beam and another above representing the charges and resulting in two crosses in one. The base with two scrolls, perhaps representing Gestas and Dismas. That form is similar to the Jerusalem cross, having been an element in the arms of Godfrey Bouillon which he wore during the First Crusade. Godfrey of Bouillon was a Frankish Knight of the First Crusade, known as Baron of the Holy Sepulcher and the Crusader King, ruler of the Kingdom of Jerusalem following its victorious siege in the First Crusade. This example is likely a provincial interpretation. It is just over 1” (1.03”) greatest dimension. It is modeled in the full round, front, and flat back. Professionally refurbished with the pure silver overlay restored, on a modern Sterling silver neck chain. An actual pendant as worn by a crusader nearly 1000 years ago!