Details
This is a treasured and sacred piece of African art. It is a traditional Ethiopian Coptic cross used in the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church.
The top features an intricate, open lattice work pattern with geometric shapes and small embedded crosses.
Its shaped allowed a priest to hold the cross comfortably during blessings or to stand it upright on an alter.
This cross appears to have been made using the traditional “lost wax” casting method and it is unique as the clay mold breaks during production.
This cross has very strong indications of being an older, authentic piece rather than a modern, mass produced replica. One clue to its authenticity is the hollowed, tapered handle where it reveals a dark, rough interior. This is exactly what you expect to see from the traditional lost wax casting method. When the mold breaks during casting, it leaves a crude, unpolished hollow tube. Modern replicas are rarely hollowed with the coarse bottom like this one.
You will also see small pits, casting air bubbles and hand-chiseled tool marks along the rim. This shows it was poured and finished individually by an artisan and not stamped out by a machine.
And lastly, the exposed metal on the base rim shows a distinct brass or bronze base with a deep, naturally aged brown and gold patina. The dark coloration inside the handle and in the pits is packed in oxidation built up over a long period of time which looks organic rather than sprayed on.
Older authentic crosses are also heavier than their reproductions. You’ll also find the surface of the handle to be smooth and polished from decades of human touch.
It is likely from the mid-20th century or earlier.
It measures about 3.25”W x 7”H.
A beautiful relic collectible with age and historical value.
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