Ancient Byzantine / Medieval Bronze Encolpion Reliquary Cross (10th-13th Century)

A genuine and authentic piece of medieval Christian history.
This is a bronze encolpion (reliquary cross) single valve dating back to circa 10th - 13th Century AD.
Features:Stylized figure in relief (likely the Virgin Mary or a Saint) in an orans prayer position.
Stylized busts/nimbus details visible on the extremities.
Beautiful, completely untouched dark green/brown archaeological patina from burial.
The original double-loop hinge mechanism on the extremity is completely intact and unbroken.
Note for transparency: There is a historical, stable hairline crack across the center, which is consistent with soil pressure over the centuries and proves its antiquity.
This is one half (single valve) of the original two-part opening cross, showing the hollow interior cavity where holy relics were stored.
Excellent educational and display piece for an antiquities collection.
Genuine original, uncleaned.
Open to reasonable offers.
Collection available or can post registered nationwide.