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Description: |
The Byzantine
Empire era (330 to 1453 AD) was a time of wealth and
prosperity. Constantine the Great, the ruler of the Roman
Empire, transferred the imperial capitol from Rome to the
ancient city of Byzantium, which was renamed Constantinople
(modern Istanbul). Greco-Roman jewelry making and
metalworking traditions were carried over to the new
capitol.
Turkey
has long since been a nation of many religions, bringing to
the table a wide variety of styles and designs in jewelry.
The gold trade was very much a part of the Byzantine Empire.
Gold jewelry encrusted with gems from Persia and India were
available in vast amounts.
A description of a woman of
Antioch, who was preparing for a religious ceremony, was
described as "She was decked out with gold ornaments, pearls
and all sorts of precious stones, resplendent in luxurious
and expensive clothes. Around her neck were necklaces and
strings of pendants and pearls."
The wealth and
prosperity enjoyed by many during the early Byzantine era is
demonstrated by the expensive jewelry produced during the
period. Adornments from the 4th century are seen in
paintings, mosaics, ivories, and manuscripts from Egypt,
Constantinople, Rome, and France. Over time, they have been
excavated at sites throughout the Byzantine world.
Jewelry played a significant role in how
people expressed their status. Byzantine royalty loved
having their bodies covered in jewelry. From headwear to
earrings, necklaces, and body jewelry, these royals would
wear as much as possible to show their status
Anatolia's Bracelet is inspired by the
jewelry designs of this amazing period. Cubic
Right-Angle-Weave (CRAW) done with True 2's and seed beads
form a shaped base for this design. Fine copper patina metal
is the base of the center component. Bezeled and embellished
with a bezeled CZ, this center component is fabulous! The
center focal point leads into Peyote stitched straps
embellished with bezeled CZ's and ending in a sliding bar
clasp.
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