Cross thumbnail 1
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Not on display

Cross

1800-1860 (made)
Artist/Maker
Place of origin

Before the revolution of 1917, almost all Orthodox Russians wore pendent crosses. These crosses were originally based on Byzantine patterns. Most are made of cast silver, and they frequently have complex designs with Cyrillic inscriptions and iconographic details which are unique to the Russian Orthodox Church. Like the filigree chains on which they were worn, they are very difficult to date accurately. Their design has remained unchanged for centuries and many crosses are still being made today from old originals.

This cross was described as 17th century when it was acquired in 1866, but is more likely to be 19th century in date.

Object details

Categories
Object type
Materials and techniques
Cast and pierced silver
Brief description
Lozenge-shaped silver cross with complex pierced decoration, Russia, 1800-1860.
Physical description
Lozenge-shaped pendant with a Russian cross surrounded by pierced scrolls and flowers. There are 13 large granules attached to the external edge.
Dimensions
  • Length: 7.2cm
  • Width: 6.4cm
  • Depth: 0.7cm
Subject depicted
Summary
Before the revolution of 1917, almost all Orthodox Russians wore pendent crosses. These crosses were originally based on Byzantine patterns. Most are made of cast silver, and they frequently have complex designs with Cyrillic inscriptions and iconographic details which are unique to the Russian Orthodox Church. Like the filigree chains on which they were worn, they are very difficult to date accurately. Their design has remained unchanged for centuries and many crosses are still being made today from old originals.

This cross was described as 17th century when it was acquired in 1866, but is more likely to be 19th century in date.
Collection
Accession number
110-1866

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Record createdJune 24, 2009
Record URL
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