Lot 148
Africa, Ethiopia, ca. 19th century CE. A breathtaking brass cross with elaborate lattice work and various incised figural elements on each arm on both sides - the Virgin and Child Enthroned surrounded by seraphim with two avian heads below on one side; a Crucifixion with goblets receiving droplets of blood from Christ's stigmata, St. Michael holding scales on Judgement Day, St. George slaying the dragon, seraphim, and two bird heads on the other. At the lower end is a flared, conical socket (attached with copper rivets) to fit a pole for processional use. A wonderful and quite large example, replete with an elaborate design, its ornate aesthetic reflecting the richness of Ethiopian Christianity. Lucite square stand. Size: 17.25" W x 28.25" H (43.8 cm x 71.8 cm); 30.5" H (77.5 cm) on stand
Although European missionaries spread Christianity to many parts of Africa, consonant with colonialism, Ethiopia had a different history. Ethiopia was the second country (following Armenia) to fully embrace Christianity, when in the 4th century St. Frumentius of Tyre converted King Ezana. Furthermore, some evidence suggests that Christianity actually flourished in this country as early as the 1st century, with the state religion being Orthodox Christianity for the most part ever after. For this reason, rather than the European Latin Cross, the Ethiopian Cross presents a distinctly African aesthetic, and these crosses are commonly named for their places of origin; ie Axum, Lalibela, and Gondar. Geometric designs are characteristic of Ethiopian art, the intertwining lattice style possesses layers of meaning and suggestions of order particular to the culture, symbolizing eternal life and relating to the nature of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church.
This cross is similar to figure 32 (page 77) in Mario Di Salvo "Crosses of Ethiopia: the Sign of Faith, Evolution, and Form" (Milan: SKIRA, 2006), Group III in Di Salvo's typology.
Provenance: Ex-private Ventura County, CA collection; acquired in Pasadena, CA
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#121474
- Condition: Intact with only minor surface wear commensurate with age.
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