PENDANT

An incomplete post medieval copper alloy rosary pendant of Pope Sixtus V (AD1585-1590), dating to AD1585. The object is formed of an oval plate cast with a bevelled edge and integral suspension loop which is no longer present. There is a nodule at 3 o'clock, and there would have been others at 6 and 9 o'clock to form a cross. One side depicts the bust of Pope Sixtus in high relief, in profile facing right, wearing the traditional cassock and camauro of office. There is an inscription encircling the image which reads SIXTVS V PON MAX A I (Pope Sixtus V, in his first year). This dates the pendant to AD1585, when Sixtus was elected. The opposite side depicts Saint Jerome, kneeling before Jesus on the cross. Before him is an open book and behind is the head of a lion. The scene is completed with foliage in the background and rocky ground in the foreground. Saint Jerome is traditionally associated with a lion (in reference to his healing the lion's paw) and books, as he is considered one fo the four Latin Doctors of the church.

Pope Sixtus V was a significant figure in the Counter Reformation and was pro-reform within the Catholic faith.

Dimensions: length: 23.35 mm; width: 20.09 mm; thickness: 2.82 mm; weight: 3.39g.