Antique 19th-century Russian Orthodox bronze crucifix with white and blue enamels, 10x5.5 in
Antique 19th-century Russian Orthodox bronze crucifix with white and blue enamels, 10x5.5 in.
An important Russian Orthodox crucifix in bronze with white and blue enamels, datable to the early 19th century, and a refined expression of the Eastern iconographic tradition. The structure follows the characteristic three-bar Russian cross with a slanted lower bar, symbolising the “scales of justice”: on one side the Good Thief welcomed into Paradise, on the other the impenitent thief turned away from ...
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Antique 19th-century Russian Orthodox bronze crucifix with white and blue enamels, 10x5.5 in.
An important Russian Orthodox crucifix in bronze with white and blue enamels, datable to the early 19th century, and a refined expression of the Eastern iconographic tradition. The structure follows the characteristic three-bar Russian cross with a slanted lower bar, symbolising the “scales of justice”: on one side the Good Thief welcomed into Paradise, on the other the impenitent thief turned away from salvation.
The lower register develops rich theological symbolism: the fallen Old Jerusalem is contrasted with the New Jerusalem, while at the base Mount Golgotha is depicted with Adam’s skull, a sign of humanity’s redemption through Christ’s sacrifice. Incised inscriptions recall the salvific meaning of the Cross, where “the place of the Crucified becomes Paradise.”
The white and blue enamels lend great luminosity and contrast to the work, enhancing the relief details and emphasising the central scene of the Crucifixion. In the Eastern tradition Christ is represented with regal nobility, not in the agony of suffering but in the glory of victory over death.
This crucifix is both an artwork and an aid to contemplation, capable of encapsulating the mystery of salvation in an intense, symbolic composition.
The piece is accompanied by an expert report from an iconographic specialist and is preserved in an elegant blue velvet case, attesting to its authenticity and collector’s value.
Provenance: Moscow, Russia.
Materials: bronze, enamels.
Dimensions: 9.6x5.5 in.
Period: early 19th century.