Antique Russian Orthodox Bronze Crucifix with Enamels, 19th century, 16x10 cm
Antique Russian Orthodox bronze crucifix with enamels, 19th century, 16 x 10.5 cm. A typical Russian Orthodox bronze crucifix characterized by the traditional three-bar structure, with the lower bar strongly inclined, the symbol of the "scales of justice": on one side the Good Thief welcomed into Paradise, on the other the Bad Thief turning away from salvation. The lower register depicts symbolic elements referring to the earthly Jerusalem and the New Jerusalem, while the base shows Mount Golgot...
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Antique Russian Orthodox bronze crucifix with enamels, 19th century, 16 x 10.5 cm. A typical Russian Orthodox bronze crucifix characterized by the traditional three-bar structure, with the lower bar strongly inclined, the symbol of the "scales of justice": on one side the Good Thief welcomed into Paradise, on the other the Bad Thief turning away from salvation. The lower register depicts symbolic elements referring to the earthly Jerusalem and the New Jerusalem, while the base shows Mount Golgotha with the skull of Adam, a clear reference to humanity's redemption through Christ's sacrifice. Incised inscriptions recall the salvific significance of the Cross as the place where "the site of the Crucified One becomes Paradise." The iconography is particularly rich: in addition to the Crucifixion, the piece features Gospel scenes such as the Annunciation, the Adoration of the Magi, the Entry into Jerusalem and the Trinity, all finely modelled in relief and enhanced by decorative motifs and enamels that lend luminosity to the work. In the Eastern tradition Christ is represented with regal nobility, not in the agony of the Passion but in the glory of victory over death, making this crucifix a powerful instrument for contemplation of the mysteries of the Christian faith.
Provenance: Moscow, Russia.
Materials: bronze and enamels.
Dimensions: 16 x 10.5 cm.
Period: 19th century.