Large pectoral cross depicting the Crucifixion - 19th century

Height × width: 19 × 10 cm Weight: 190.3 g.
Bronze casting
The work displays the canonical structure of the Russian eight-pointed cross (with three crossbars), in which the lower slanting crossbar serves as a symbolic footrest. At the center of the cast is Christ Crucified, while the upper register elevates the drama to the heavenly realm with two adoring angels in flight, surmounted by a six-winged Seraph. The upper terminal of the cross, incorporating a suspension loop, is adorned with the Mandylion, the acheiropoietos ("image not made by human hands") of Edessa, miraculously impressed upon a cloth. These imposing crosses were worn ceremonially over the vestments during communal processions, serving as true emblems of faith for the Old Believers. The surface is notably worn as a result of repeated polishing. The Old Believers regarded tarnish and oxidation as signs of corruption and therefore sought to keep their metal icons bright and lustrous. Whenever an icon began to oxidize, it was simply rubbed with a cloth lightly dusted with chalk, sand, ash, or powdered brick, restoring its shine almost immediately.



Item condition grading: **** good.
The icon is in a good state of preservation with the normal wear and defects commensurate with its age and use over time.