Description:

Eastern Europe, Greece, ca. late 19th to early 20th century CE. A hand-carved wooden stamp from Eastern Orthodox Christian tradition, used for marking eucharistic bread loaves with intricate religious symbols. The detailed carvings would have imprinted sacred designs onto the dough before baking, playing a vital role in communion rituals. The central quadrangular field symbolizes the crucifixion, the Greek inscription "IC XC NI KA," which also appears in 3 other squares, translates to "Jesus Christ Conquers." The nine ranks of angels are depicted as three hierarchies of three, shown by nine dots and triangles arranged in two squares. The spear that pierced Jesus on the cross and the vinegar-soaked sponge are also depicted. Size: 4" L x 4" W (10.2 cm x 10.2 cm)

Provenance: private Sonoma, California, USA collection, acquired prior to 1986

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#188906

  • Condition: Old losses to the corners as shown. Dark patina throughout from age and use.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa

Shipping

Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense

September 13, 2024 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 27.5% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000