Bronze Ethiopian Orthodox Coptic Cross
A very beautiful bronze Ethiopian Cross used by priests of the orthodox Coptic Christian Church.
This example would have been carried in hand by the Coptic priest at all times to bestow blessings upon the foreheads of the congregation or as objects of veneration.
These are among the most decorative and mysterious religious artefacts that have come about as a result of the colonialisation of Africa.
Christianity came to the highlands of Ethiopia in the early part of the 4th century, with the arrival of the Egyptian Copts, who were forced to flee their homeland. Isolating themselves from the outside world in remote mountain villages, they were able to protect themselves from the spread of Islam and practice their faith. Traditionally these were made crosses using the' lost wax' method whereby the wax mold is broken after every cast, so each piece is a one-of-a-kind, work of art.
Also known as 'Axum' or 'Lalibela' crosses, they have a distinctive African influence to their design which is derived from the traditional Latin cross.
Ethiopian crosses, such as this one always have elaborate, intertwined lattice work. Hand -held crosses usually include a square at the base, which represents the Ark of the Covenant as is evident in this example.
The earliest designs were simple cross forms, but as the silver and other became more available and the skill of the artisans increased, the crosses began to take on a life of their own. They became more elaborate, with beautiful and complicated open work designs. The use of the "endless interwoven lines" pattern, which symbolized eternity, became very popular.
This stunning bronze example bears evidence of having some age , as is evident by its beautiful patina, softly aged with time, with some of the original bronze shining through.
A truly beautiful piece, it would look lovely mounted on a wall in a bedroom for contemplation or a hallway or entrance bestowing blessings of protection on the home.
Height : 225mm
Width 102mm
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