Medieval

A remarkable and historically evocative bronze coin pendant attributed to Baldwin II of the County of Edessa, one of the most important frontier territories established during the First Crusade. Dating by its proposed attribution to Baldwin II's second period of rule, 1108–1118 AD, this extraordinary coin type belongs to the turbulent age of the early Crusader states, when European knights, Armenian communities and the great powers of the medieval Near East encountered one another in a landscape shaped by warfare, diplomacy and religious devotion. Baldwin II — The Crusader Count Who Became King of Jerusalem Baldwin II was among the most significant leaders of the early Crusader world. Before ascending the throne of Jerusalem in 1118, he ruled the County of Edessa, a strategically important Crusader principality situated along the northern frontier of the Latin East. His career was marked by military campaigns, captivity, political alliances and the continuous struggle to preserve the fragile territories established following the First Crusade. The County of Edessa occupied a particularly fascinating position at the meeting point of Latin Christian, Armenian, Byzantine and Islamic cultures. Coins attributed to its rulers provide a tangible connection with this extraordinary chapter of medieval history. An Enigmatic Bronze Coin of the Crusader Frontier The pendant preserves the distinctive circular form of a medieval bronze coin, with an irregular edge and richly textured surfaces. One face displays surviving raised elements of an intriguing central composition, while the opposite side retains more fragmentary traces of its original design. The contrasting greenish and earthy brown tones give the object a particularly atmospheric appearance, emphasising the irregularities of its surface and the surviving details of its medieval-style imagery. Its worn and enigmatic character adds to the visual appeal of a coin associated with one of the most dramatic periods of the Crusades. The Symbolism of Faith, Courage and Endurance The history of Edessa evokes the extraordinary determination of those who lived along the contested frontiers of the medieval Near East. As a wearable historical talisman, this coin may symbolically represent: Faith and devotion — the religious convictions that profoundly shaped the Crusader era. Courage and perseverance — the endurance required to survive a turbulent frontier world. Leadership and loyalty — the ideals associated with medieval knighthood and royal authority. Protection and resilience — the symbolic strength of an object connected with a fortified Crusader principality. These associations give the pendant a compelling historical and symbolic character. A Remarkable Piece of Wearable Crusader History Transformed into a pendant with a modern silver-coloured suspension ring and chain, the bronze coin becomes an evocative piece of historical jewellery. Its irregular circular form, strongly textured surfaces and distinctive surviving relief create a fascinating contrast with the polished modern suspension. “The Sacred Legacy of Edessa” celebrates the extraordinary history of Baldwin II and the early Crusader states — a captivating historical-style talisman recalling faith, courage and the struggle for survival in the medieval Near East. Proposed attribution: Crusader States, County of Edessa Ruler: Baldwin II, second reign Proposed date: 1108–1118 AD Denomination: Æ bronze coin, precise type to be confirmed Material: Copper alloy / bronze, visually assessed Mounting: Modern suspension ring and chain Condition: Heavily textured surfaces with greenish and earthy brown colouration; original designs partially obscured

Schätzpreis:€200

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