Antique 19th-century Russian Orthodox crucifix in bronze with yellow and green enamel, 9x5.5 in
Antique 19th-century Russian Orthodox crucifix in bronze with yellow and green enamel, 8.7x5.5 in.
An important Russian Orthodox crucifix in bronze enriched with yellow and green enamel, a notable expression of the devotional tradition of Eastern Europe. The structure follows the typical Russian cross with three crossbeams, the lower one slanting, 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 lowe...
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Antique 19th-century Russian Orthodox crucifix in bronze with yellow and green enamel, 8.7x5.5 in.
An important Russian Orthodox crucifix in bronze enriched with yellow and green enamel, a notable expression of the devotional tradition of Eastern Europe. The structure follows the typical Russian cross with three crossbeams, the lower one slanting, 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 depicts symbolic elements of earthly Jerusalem and the New Jerusalem, while at the base Mount Golgotha appears with Adam's skull, a sign of humanity's redemption through Christ's sacrifice. The engraved inscriptions recall the salvific meaning of the Cross, where "the place of the Crucified becomes Paradise".
The iconography is rich and detailed: alongside the Crucifixion are Gospel scenes such as the Annunciation, the Adoration of the Magi, the Entry into Jerusalem and the Trinity, all finely modelled in relief and enhanced by floral decorations and enamel that lend luminosity to the whole.
In the Eastern tradition, Christ is represented with regal composure, not in the agony of suffering but in the glory of his victory over death, making this crucifix both an artistic object and a powerful instrument for spiritual meditation.
The crucifix is presented in an elegant blue velvet case and is accompanied by an expert appraisal.
Provenance: Moscow, Russia.
Materials: bronze, enamel.
Dimensions: 8.7x5.5 in.
Period: early 19th century.