Set of four metal encolpia. Byzantium. 9 -10th Centuries.   Measurements: 12 × 7 cm 8 × 4.5 cm 7.5 × 4 cm 5.5 × 2.5 cm     This group of encolpia that we present, as described on the Tesauros website of the Spanish Ministry of Culture, is characterized by its devotional nature and by being small objects decorated with Christian motifs or symbols, originating from the Syro-Palestinian sphere. Initially, these pieces were intended to be worn hanging from the neck by means of a cord passing through one or more loops, functioning as pectoral pendants. They could be made from different materials used in metalwork and adopt various forms, such as simple discs or crosses—known as cruciform encolpia—medallions, or small boxes resembling reliquaries. In the interior of these pieces, relics were usually kept, generally fragments associated with the Signum Crucis, and were preserved within a small capsule formed by two pieces fitted together or, in some cases, inside a structure with a quadrangular section. They started to be documented during the 14th century, in the Christian world, and their use became widely spread. From the 6th century onward, they began to appear in the Iberian Peninsula, most often in the form of small articulated crosses made of worked bronze and decorated by chiseling.   Among the most prized crosses are those incorporating cloisonné enamels, as well as those depicting figures of Christ or the Virgin. Pieces decorated with scenes from the liturgical calendar or with representations of saints, such as Saint Demetrius or Saint George, were also common. In relic-type models, the cross motif acquired special importance, evolving in form and ornamentation over time and incorporating, from the 11th century, the well-known motif of the floriated cross.   Reference bibliography: https://tesauros.cultura.gob.es/tesauros/bienesculturales/1189488.html#:~:text=Betilo%20%C2%B7%20+%20Cruz%20%C2%B7%20%2D%20Encolpion