Pectoral cross depicting the Crucifixion - 19th century

Height × width: 16 × 10 cm Weight: 127.5 g.
Bronze casting and polychrome enamels
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 casting is the figure of Christ Crucified. The upper register elevates the drama to the heavenly realm with two adoring angels in flight, surmounted by God the Father emerging from a bank of clouds. Such crosses were worn ceremonially over liturgical garments during communal processions, serving as a true emblem 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 lot is in a good state of preservation with the normal wear and defects commensurate with its age and use over time.