Body chain of linked medallions, solar disc, sun disc
European Museums, The British MuseumSolar disc on body chain from Byzantine Empire
Body chain
This body chain of linked medallions is the largest item of jewelry to survive from the Byzantine Empire. It would have been worn draped over the shoulders and around the hips, as shown on the figurine. In Greek and Roman art, body chains were often associated with Venus, the goddess of love. Due to its size, this chain may have adorned a statue (possibly of Venus) instead of an actual woman.
By the AD 500s, statues from the neighboring Persian Empire showed kings wearing similar body chains. The significance of this type of accessory may have changed from symbolizing female sexuality to denoting male power and authority.
AD 600s, Assiut or Antinoe, Egypt, donated by Mrs. Bums, 1916,0704.1. Figurine, Egypt, AD 1-100s, 1926,0930.42
Supplementary images:
Solar disc on body chain from Byzantine Empire
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