Antique late 18th-century Russian Orthodox bronze crucifix with enamels, 10x5.5 in
Antique late 18th-century Russian Orthodox bronze crucifix with enamels, 10x5.5 in.
Important Russian Orthodox crucifix in bronze featuring enamels, datable to the late 18th century, characterised by the typical three-bar structure. The lower bar, strongly inclined, represents the "scales of justice": on one side the Good Thief ascending to Paradise, on the other the impenitent thief turning away from salvation.
The lower register develops rich symbolism: the fallen Old Jerusalem is set against th...
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Antique late 18th-century Russian Orthodox bronze crucifix with enamels, 10x5.5 in.
Important Russian Orthodox crucifix in bronze featuring enamels, datable to the late 18th century, characterised by the typical three-bar structure. The lower bar, strongly inclined, represents the "scales of justice": on one side the Good Thief ascending to Paradise, on the other the impenitent thief turning away from salvation.
The lower register develops rich symbolism: the fallen Old Jerusalem is set against 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. The engraved inscriptions recall the salvific meaning of the Cross, suggesting that the place of the Crucifixion becomes, symbolically, Paradise.
The surface is enlivened by enamels in green and light tones, which enhance the relief details and confer greater depth and luminosity to the composition. Christ, in accordance with the Eastern tradition, is shown with regal nobility — not in the agony of suffering but in the glory of victory over death.
This crucifix is both a work of fine craftsmanship and a powerful instrument for contemplation of the mysteries of the Christian faith, embodying the theological meaning of salvation.
The piece is accompanied by a report from an iconographic expert and is housed in an elegant blue velvet case, elements that attest to its authenticity and collector’s value.
Provenance: Moscow, Russia.
Materials: bronze, enamels.
Dimensions: 9.8x5.5 in.
Period: late 18th century.