Africa, Ethiopia, ca. early 20th century CE. A breathtaking white brass processional cross with elaborate lattice work and icons in repousse on both sides occupying the circular sections of the arms and as the centerpiece. These include the Christ Pantocrator at the top, St. George on horseback slaying the dragon - the idealized image of the triumph of good over evil - adorning one arm, the Virgin and Child adorning the opposite arm, and at the center, the archangel St. Michael with three figures perhaps representing the Trinity below. At the lower end is a flared, conical socket to fit a pole for processional use that is adorned by a cross with incised details and an openwork surround. A lovely example, replete with an elaborate design, its ornate aesthetic reflecting the richness of Ethiopian Christianity. Size: 19.25" W x 24.5" H (48.9 cm x 62.2 cm)

Ethiopian Christianity is one of the most distinctive traditions of the religion, earlier than much of the rest of Africa thanks to missions from the 1st century until the 4th century, when St. Frumentius of Tyre converted King Ezana. As a result, Ethiopia developed a distinctly African form of Christianity. 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.

Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection

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#140626

Normal surface wear commensurate with age, but the imagery of the icons remains quite vivid and the form is intact and strong. The brass has developed a lovely warm patina over the years.