Antique Russian Orthodox bronze crucifix, early 18th-century, 5.5x3 in
Antique Russian Orthodox bronze crucifix, early 18th-century, 5.5x3 in.
An antique Russian Orthodox crucifix in bronze, datable to the early 18th century, an authentic example of the Russian devotional tradition. The cross features the characteristic three-bar structure, with the lower bar slanted, a symbol of 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 depicts the fallen Old Jerusalem ...
Info and features
Antique Russian Orthodox bronze crucifix, early 18th-century, 5.5x3 in.
An antique Russian Orthodox crucifix in bronze, datable to the early 18th century, an authentic example of the Russian devotional tradition. The cross features the characteristic three-bar structure, with the lower bar slanted, a symbol of 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 depicts the fallen Old Jerusalem contrasted with the New Jerusalem; at the base Mount Golgotha is shown with Adam’s skull, a powerful emblem 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 finely worked: alongside the central Crucifixion are numerous Gospel scenes and sacred figures rendered in relief, including episodes from the life of Christ and representations of the Trinity, all enhanced by decorative motifs typical of Russian production of the period.
In the Eastern tradition Christ is depicted with regal composure, not in the convulsion of suffering but in the glory of his victory over death, making this crucifix both an object of deep spiritual meditation and a valuable historical artifact.
The piece is accompanied by a report from an expert appraiser and preserved in an elegant blue case, elements that further attest to its collector’s value.
Provenance: Moscow, Russia.
Materials: bronze.
Dimensions: 5.5x3 in.
Period: early 18th century.