The Wyvern Collection: Byzantine and Sasanian Silver, Enamels and Works of Art is more than just a book; it is a portal into the artistic splendor of Late Antiquity and the early Middle Ages. This period, often overshadowed by the grandeur of preceding eras, is now celebrated for its extraordinary creativity in the decorative arts.

Artists of the Eastern Roman Empire, known as Byzantium, skillfully transitioned from Roman realism to a more symbolic and hieratic style. This transformation was fueled by the rich artistic connections across the Mediterranean and the East, which are vividly illustrated through the collection’s luxurious artifacts.

Among the highlights are masterpieces like a previously unpublished 5th-century Artemis missorium and an exquisite 11th-century enamelled enkolpion from Constantinople. Each piece tells a story of wealth, culture, and the intricate craftsmanship of the time, commissioned by wealthy patrons and the Church.

The catalogue, curated by Byzantine metalwork expert Marco Aimone, is enriched by essays from specialists like Jack Ogden, who explores the art of enamelling, and Peter Northover, who delves into metallurgy. This collaborative effort beautifully encapsulates the significance of these artifacts in art history.

The Wyvern Collection invites readers to appreciate not only the aesthetic beauty of these works but also their historical context, reflecting the vast influence of Mediterranean and Persian civilizations on art and culture across the ages.

The Wyvern Collection: Byzantine and Sasanian Silver, Enamels and Works of Art (The Wyvern Collection)

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