Antique 19th-century Russian Orthodox crucifix in bronze with blue enamel, 11x5 in
Antique 19th-century Russian Orthodox crucifix in bronze with blue enamel, 10.6x5.3 in.
A majestic Russian Orthodox crucifix in bronze with blue enamels, dating from the early 19th century, a significant expression of the iconographic tradition of Eastern Europe. The structure follows the classic model of the Russian cross with three crossbars, the lower one sloping, a symbol of the "scales of justice": on one side the good thief welcomed into Paradise, on the other the bad thief turning away fro...
Info and features
Antique 19th-century Russian Orthodox crucifix in bronze with blue enamel, 10.6x5.3 in.
A majestic Russian Orthodox crucifix in bronze with blue enamels, dating from the early 19th century, a significant expression of the iconographic tradition of Eastern Europe. The structure follows the classic model of the Russian cross with three crossbars, the lower one sloping, a symbol of the "scales of justice": on one side the good thief welcomed into Paradise, on the other the bad thief turning away from salvation.
The lower section holds strong symbolic significance: the fallen Old Jerusalem contrasts with the New Jerusalem, whilst at the base Mount Golgotha is depicted with Adam’s skull, a clear reference to the redemption of humanity through Christ’s sacrifice. The engraved inscriptions recall the salvific meaning of the Cross, the place where "the place of the Crucified One becomes Paradise".
The blue enamel lends depth and luminosity to the composition, highlighting the relief details and emphasising the central scene of the Crucifixion. Christ is depicted in the Eastern tradition with regal nobility, not in the agony of the Passion but in the glory of victory over death.
This crucifix is both a work of art and an instrument of contemplation, capable of encapsulating the mystery of salvation in an intense and symbolic representation.
The work is accompanied by a report from an iconographic expert and is housed in an elegant case.
Provenance: Moscow, Russia.
Materials: bronze, enamel.
Dimensions: 10.6x5.3 in.
Period: beginning of the 19th century.