Antique Russian Orthodox Bronze Crucifix with Enamels, early 19th century, 18x15 cm
Antique Russian Orthodox bronze crucifix with enamels, early 19th century, 18.5 x 14.5 cm. A significant example of Eastern European iconographic tradition, this crucifix adopts the typical three-barred cross structure, with the lower bar slanted, 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 develops a rich theological symbolism: the fallen Old Jerusalem contrasts with the New ...
Info and features
Antique Russian Orthodox bronze crucifix with enamels, early 19th century, 18.5 x 14.5 cm. A significant example of Eastern European iconographic tradition, this crucifix adopts the typical three-barred cross structure, with the lower bar slanted, 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 develops a rich theological symbolism: the fallen Old Jerusalem contrasts with the New Jerusalem, while at the base Mount Golgotha is depicted together with the skull of Adam, a sign of humanity's redemption through Christ's sacrifice. Incised inscriptions recall the salvific meaning of the Cross as the place where “the site of the Crucified One becomes Paradise.” The enamel accents enliven the surface, adding luminosity and depth to the finely modelled relief details and enhancing the central Crucifixion scene. In the Eastern tradition Christ is represented with regal nobility, not in the spasm of suffering but in the glory of victory over death. Created as an object for contemplation and prayer, this crucifix holds considerable spiritual and historical value. This orthodox crucifix is accompanied by an expert appraisal by an iconography specialist and is delivered in an elegant blue velvet presentation case.
Provenance: Moscow, Russia.
Materials: Bronze and enamels.
Dimensions: 18.5 x 14.5 cm.
Period: early 19th century.