Antique Russian Orthodox Bronze Crucifix with Enamels, late 18th century, 25x14 cm
Antique Russian Orthodox bronze crucifix with enamels, late 18th century, 25 x 14 cm. An important example of Russian Orthodox bronze work, dated to the late 18th century and characterized by the typical three-bar structure. The strongly inclined lower bar represents 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 symbolism: the fallen Old Jerusalem contrasts with the New Jerusa...
Info and features
Antique Russian Orthodox bronze crucifix with enamels, late 18th century, 25 x 14 cm. An important example of Russian Orthodox bronze work, dated to the late 18th century and characterized by the typical three-bar structure. The strongly inclined lower bar represents 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 symbolism: the fallen Old Jerusalem contrasts with the New Jerusalem, while the base depicts Mount Golgotha with the skull of Adam, a sign of humanity's redemption through Christ's sacrifice. Incised inscriptions recall the salvific meaning of the Cross, indicating how the site of the Crucifixion is symbolically transformed into Paradise. The surface is enriched with enamels in green and light tones that enhance the relief details and lend greater depth and luminosity to the composition. In the Eastern tradition Christ is portrayed with regal nobility, not in the spasm of suffering but in the glory of victory over death, making this crucifix both a work of art and a powerful aid for contemplation of the mysteries of the Christian faith. The piece is accompanied by an expert appraisal from an iconography specialist and is delivered in an elegant blue velvet presentation case, attesting to its authenticity and collector's value.
Provenance: Moscow, Russia.
Materials: Bronze and enamels.
Dimensions: 25 x 14 cm.
Period: late 18th century.