Crucifix - Bronze, Enamel - 1800-1850, 1850-1900

Ancient Russian Orthodox blessing cross in bronze with blue enamel, second half of the 19th century. Cross with three traverses typical of the Russian Orthodox rite, with the lower traverse slanted to recall the good and bad thief.

Traditional Byzantine iconography: Christ crucified surrounded by church Slavonic inscriptions, the Holy Face (Mandylion) at the top carried by two angels, the sun and moon on either side of the main traverse, the walls of Jerusalem in the background, and at the foot of the cross the skull of Adam, interred according to tradition beneath Golgotha. The reverse is finely engraved with scrolling floral motifs and clusters of grapes.

These crosses were cast by the Russian workshops of the 19th century, particularly those of Old Believer communities, and served as domestic blessing crosses or travel icons.

Dimensions: 19 x 14 cm.

Condition: good overall, blue enamel mostly preserved. Small enamel loss localized above Adam's skull (lower part), fine crack on the reverse not visible from the front. Wear and patina in keeping with age (see photos).

Shipping: careful packaging, tracked shipping available.