Medieval history lovers will find plenty to bid on in TimeLine Auctions’ next online sale. Run by the British-based auction house, the event begins on 3 March, with hundreds of historical objects due to go under the hammer.
Here are five of our picks that should especially interest medieval collectors and fans of medieval material culture.
This impressive gilt copper cross once formed part of a church procession, its arms set with coloured cabochons to evoke a jewelled cross. The front shows a slender figure of Christ with a calm, reflective expression, while the reverse is decorated with floral enamel work. Although made up of elements from different moments in the 13th century and later, it remains a striking example of the vibrant metalwork associated with Limoges.
This complete suit of iron plate armour dates to the turbulent era of Mongol expansion in northern China. The rectangular plates were laced together to create a flexible but protective coat. One plate bears an inscription naming the month and year it was made as well as an official connected to armour production, offering a rare glimpse into military administration during a time of prolonged warfare between the Mongols and Jurchen states.
A small but evocative piece of Viking silver, this mount once decorated a wooden casket. It shows a male and female figure facing one another, likely the Norse deities Freyr and Freyja. With its beaded border and carefully worked scene, it reflects both the artistry of Viking metalworkers and the importance of mythological imagery in everyday objects.
This ornate brooch would have fastened a cloak or dress in early Anglo-Saxon England. Its surface is crowded with animal forms and stylised human masks in the distinctive “Style I” ornament of the period. Despite its intricate design, it was a practical object—part of the dress and identity of its wearer during the formative centuries of early medieval England.
This gold ring features two facing busts—most likely a bride and groom—with a cross between them and the Greek word OMONOIA (“harmony”) engraved below. Such rings were popular in the Byzantine world and often expressed hopes for unity and divine blessing within marriage. The inset carnelian stones and engraved details make this both a personal token and a finely crafted work of early medieval jewellery.
Those looking for something less expensive could try a medieval coin, with several dozen being auctioned. They include a Merovingian denier and a 13th-century dirham from North Africa.
Medieval history lovers will find plenty to bid on in TimeLine Auctions’ next online sale. Run by the British-based auction house, the event begins on 3 March, with hundreds of historical objects due to go under the hammer.
Here are five of our picks that should especially interest medieval collectors and fans of medieval material culture.
Large Medieval Limoges Gilt Copper Processional Cross
This impressive gilt copper cross once formed part of a church procession, its arms set with coloured cabochons to evoke a jewelled cross. The front shows a slender figure of Christ with a calm, reflective expression, while the reverse is decorated with floral enamel work. Although made up of elements from different moments in the 13th century and later, it remains a striking example of the vibrant metalwork associated with Limoges.
Chinese Jin Jurchen Warrior Signed Suit of Iron Plate Armour
This complete suit of iron plate armour dates to the turbulent era of Mongol expansion in northern China. The rectangular plates were laced together to create a flexible but protective coat. One plate bears an inscription naming the month and year it was made as well as an official connected to armour production, offering a rare glimpse into military administration during a time of prolonged warfare between the Mongols and Jurchen states.
Viking Silver Freyr and Freyja Casket Mount
A small but evocative piece of Viking silver, this mount once decorated a wooden casket. It shows a male and female figure facing one another, likely the Norse deities Freyr and Freyja. With its beaded border and carefully worked scene, it reflects both the artistry of Viking metalworkers and the importance of mythological imagery in everyday objects.
Large Anglo-Saxon Bronze Florid Cruciform Brooch
This ornate brooch would have fastened a cloak or dress in early Anglo-Saxon England. Its surface is crowded with animal forms and stylised human masks in the distinctive “Style I” ornament of the period. Despite its intricate design, it was a practical object—part of the dress and identity of its wearer during the formative centuries of early medieval England.
Byzantine Gold Marriage Ring with Busts
This gold ring features two facing busts—most likely a bride and groom—with a cross between them and the Greek word OMONOIA (“harmony”) engraved below. Such rings were popular in the Byzantine world and often expressed hopes for unity and divine blessing within marriage. The inset carnelian stones and engraved details make this both a personal token and a finely crafted work of early medieval jewellery.
Those looking for something less expensive could try a medieval coin, with several dozen being auctioned. They include a Merovingian denier and a 13th-century dirham from North Africa.
Alongside these medieval pieces, the sale also features several high-profile classical works, including monumental Roman marble sculptures such as a helmeted bust of Mars and a large sarcophagus panel with theatrical mask decoration.
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