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Group of Three Cross-Inscribed Weights
Circa 6th-8th Century AD
Description:
Three
early Byzantine bronze square weights, two inscribed with the Cross, a symbol
that was used on weights as an added mark of quality and
honesty. The largest of the weights, (a) depicts a large central cross flanked
on both sides by the Greek letter Γ (abbreviation for the Greek oungia) and
encircled within a wreath. At 79.95 grams, the weight represents the value of 3
early Byzantine ounces, and is identical in weight and markings to one found at
Emporio in Chios in the 1950s by the British School at Athens. Weight (b) at
26.6 grams represents the value of 1 ounce and is decorated with a
wreath-encircled cross flanked by the Greek letters Γ and Λ. An
additional small cross is used at each of the four corners.
Both weights are incised and originally inlaid with silver, slight traces
of which remains. Weight (c) is of a simpler form with two circle punches on
each side, probably indicating a value of two nomisma.
Length: 1.8 in. (4.6 cm); 1.3 in. (3.3 cm); 0.6 in. (1.5 cm)
Condition: Superb with sharp inscriptions.
Reference: See Excavations at Chios by Michael Ballance and John Boardman, #115, for an identical example of that largest weight along with a chart of weights and values. Also see ANTIOCH, by Christine Kondoleon, page 87-88 for a discussion of weights in the early Byzantine period.
Provenance: Formerly in the collection of the Boston scholar Carroll Wales, collected 1952-1970.
Price: SOLD
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