Ancient Byzantine Cross
DocuJewel® 39139.2
Type of Jewel: Ancient Object
Description:
Ancient Byzantine Cross
5 Round Circles: Meaning
1. The Five Wounds of Christ
When there are five circles (one center + four on the arms), they are often interpreted as:
Center = Christ’s side wound
Four around = hands and feet
2. Divine light / eternity
Circles in Byzantine art frequently symbolize:
Perfection (no beginning or end)
God’s eternal nature
Heavenly light or radiance
So even when not strictly “counted” as wounds, they reinforce sacred meaning.
3. Protective / apotropaic symbols
On small wearable crosses (like yours), repeated circular marks could also serve a protective function, meant to ward off evil or invoke blessing.
Metal: Bronze
Circa: 7th to 12th Century CE
Measurements:
25x20mm
Type of Jewel: Ancient Object
Description:
Ancient Byzantine Cross
5 Round Circles: Meaning
1. The Five Wounds of Christ
When there are five circles (one center + four on the arms), they are often interpreted as:
Center = Christ’s side wound
Four around = hands and feet
2. Divine light / eternity
Circles in Byzantine art frequently symbolize:
Perfection (no beginning or end)
God’s eternal nature
Heavenly light or radiance
So even when not strictly “counted” as wounds, they reinforce sacred meaning.
3. Protective / apotropaic symbols
On small wearable crosses (like yours), repeated circular marks could also serve a protective function, meant to ward off evil or invoke blessing.
Metal: Bronze
Circa: 7th to 12th Century CE
Measurements:
25x20mm