Antique Russian Orthodox Crucifix, 19th Century, Bronze and Enamels, 22x14 cm
Antique Russian Orthodox Crucifix, 19th Century of Bronze and Enamels, 22 x 14 cm. An impressive Russian Orthodox bronze crucifix, embellished with yellow and green enamel, a significant example of Eastern European devotional tradition. Its structure follows the typical form of the Russian three-barred cross, featuring a slanted lower bar that symbolizes the "Scales of Justice": on one side, it points toward the Good Thief ascending to Paradise; on the other, toward the Bad Thief turning away fr...
Info and features
Antique Russian Orthodox Crucifix, 19th Century of Bronze and Enamels, 22 x 14 cm. An impressive Russian Orthodox bronze crucifix, embellished with yellow and green enamel, a significant example of Eastern European devotional tradition. Its structure follows the typical form of the Russian three-barred cross, featuring a slanted lower bar that symbolizes the "Scales of Justice": on one side, it points toward the Good Thief ascending to Paradise; on the other, toward the Bad Thief turning away from salvation. The lower section depicts symbolic elements representing both the earthly Jerusalem and the New Jerusalem, while the base features Mount Golgotha surmounted by the skull of Adam, symbol of humanity's redemption through the sacrifice of Christ. The engraved inscriptions evoke the salvific significance of the Cross, the place where "the site of the Crucified One becomes Paradise." The iconography is rich and detailed: in addition to the Crucifixion itself, the piece features various Gospel scenes; such as the Annunciation, the Adoration of the Magi, the Entry into Jerusalem, and the Trinity, all finely rendered in relief and embellished with floral motifs and enamels that lend a luminous quality to the composition. In keeping with Eastern tradition, Christ is depicted with regal composure, not in suffering, but in the glory of His victory over death, making this crucifix not merely an artistic object, but also a powerful aid for spiritual meditation. The orthodox crucifix is delivered in an elegant blue velvet case and is accompanied by an expert appraisal certificate.
Provenance: Moscow, Russia.
Materials: Bronze and enamels.
Dimensions: 22 x 14 cm.
Period: Early 19th century.