Free Republic

Ever wondered what was in the Vatican Secret Archives or the Pope’s Treasury Collection? “Baldwin’s Treasure” is the premier collection of sacred antiquities made of silver and precious gems from all over Byzantium. These include the finest works in ivory and enamel, jade, gold leaf, and glass. Has anyone ever heard of this? Probably not, but those who have been in the company of an elite few. This article is about a mysterious and enigmatic collection of ancient, rare objects belonging to Christian and Jewish heritage. A little backgrounder, though, is necessary. First, when was the Byzantine (Eastern Roman) Empire...