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BYZANTINE WORLD The pomp and sumptuousness of the Byzantine court are reflected in its jewellery, with its fine workmanship and use of gems identifying the wealth and status of the wearers. Between 663 and 668 AD, the Emperor Constant II moved the court temporarily to Syracuse. A trace remains of the splendour of this court in the impressive gold nuptial ring found in Syracuse; it is octagonal in shape and the figures of Christ and an imperial couple are depicted on the setting. Its craftsman was highly skilled and by using an intricate technique of silver “agemina” and “niello”, has managed to portray scenes from the New Testament on the different faces of the ring, with as many as five characters in each. The presence of the court may have also determined the formation of local workshops where items of expensive jewellery may have been reproduced in less costly metals. The three splendid necklaces from Campobello di Mazara belong to the period of the end of the Byzantine domination in Sicily. They were part of a treasure probably hidden by its anonymous owner at the time of the historic battle which took place near here in 827 AD and paved the way to the Arab conquest of Sicily. The heavy gold signet ring has the name of the ambitious Byzantine general, Eufemio, engraved on the setting and presumably belonged to him. It was his act of treachery which helped bring about the downfall of Byzantine rule; he was killed beneath the walls of Castrogiovanni (modern day Enna). Apart from the precious rings and necklaces worn only by members of the imperial court and holders of high office, there are other ornaments which are less valuable but are of considerable historical importance. They are engraved with the names of their owners or with good luck messages. Symbolic pictures on the ring settings bear witness to the existence of Christian communities on the island. The use of decorative belt buckles became increasingly common. |