A rare and historically significant 22kt yellow gold pendant/brooch, crafted in Italy during the mid-19th century within the Papal workshops of the Vatican. This exceptional piece is designed in the form of a cross, richly decorated with intricate micro mosaic work. The central roundel depicts the Agnus Dei (Lamb of God) holding a flag, symbolising Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection, set against a deep blue background representing divinity and heaven.
Each arm of the cross features different Christian motifs:
Top: Chi-Rho symbol, representing Christ.
Sides: Cherubic figures, associated with divine guardianship.
Bottom: Anchor, symbolising hope and steadfastness.
The piece demonstrates the extraordinary precision of the micro mosaic technique, where thousands of tesserae (tiny glass or stone pieces) are painstakingly assembled to form religious imagery with striking detail and colour.
Dimensions
Length × Width × Height: 7 × 5.7 cm
Weight: 27 grams
Specifications
Metal: 22kt yellow gold
Origin: Italy, Papal workshops
Date: c.1850s–1860s
Markings: Vatican Papal stamp (Papal tiara with keys of St. Peter)
Form: Convertible pendant/brooch (cross-shaped)
Condition Report
Pre-owned antique condition with minor wear. Some small blemishes to the micro mosaics are visible under close inspection, but the overall integrity and beauty of the piece remain intact. Please refer to photos.
A rare and historically significant 22kt yellow gold pendant/brooch, crafted in Italy during the mid-19th century within the Papal workshops of the Vatican. This exceptional piece is designed in the form of a cross, richly decorated with intricate micro mosaic work. The central roundel depicts the Agnus Dei (Lamb of God) holding a flag, symbolising Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection, set against a deep blue background representing divinity and heaven.
Each arm of the cross features different Christian motifs:
Top: Chi-Rho symbol, representing Christ.
Sides: Cherubic figures, associated with divine guardianship.
Bottom: Anchor, symbolising hope and steadfastness.
The piece demonstrates the extraordinary precision of the micro mosaic technique, where thousands of tesserae (tiny glass or stone pieces) are painstakingly assembled to form religious imagery with striking detail and colour.
Dimensions
Length × Width × Height: 7 × 5.7 cm
Weight: 27 grams
Specifications
Metal: 22kt yellow gold
Origin: Italy, Papal workshops
Date: c.1850s–1860s
Markings: Vatican Papal stamp (Papal tiara with keys of St. Peter)
Form: Convertible pendant/brooch (cross-shaped)
Condition Report
Pre-owned antique condition with minor wear. Some small blemishes to the micro mosaics are visible under close inspection, but the overall integrity and beauty of the piece remain intact. Please refer to photos.
