Antique 19th Century Ethiopian Abyssinian Coptic Orthodox Brass Blessing Cross

This is an authentic 19th-century Ethiopian Abyssinian Coptic Orthodox brass blessing cross comprised of three intricately cast and attached elements.

The cross is decorated with intricate geometric patterns arranged in a lattice design, resulting in a stunning visual effect. The cross is attached to a long handle with a square section, and the handle has an ornate finial consisting of a pierced rectangular panel topped by a cross.

A blessing cross is a hand cross held by a priest or bishop in the Eastern Orthodox Church when he gives a benediction. It is often made of precious metal, though in Ethiopia, blessing crosses are often made out of brass.

When the blessing cross is used in the blessing of holy water, the priest will dip the cross in the water and make the sign of the cross with it three times. In the Oriental Orthodox Churches, the blessing cross tends not to have an icon, and the clergy will often carry it for most of the service. In some traditions, the priest will always have the blessing cross with him, even when he is outside the church.

Due to the high demand for antique Ethiopian Ecclesiastical Art, the market has been flooded with reproductions of Ethiopian processional crosses that have recently been made in Ethiopia, Egypt, and Morocco. However, we would like to assure our clients that the Blessing Cross we are offering is a 100% authentic antique 19th-century Ethiopian Solomonic dynasty Coptic processional cross.

The buyer will be provided with a certificate of authenticity.

CONDITION: Overall, the Blessing Cross is in good condition, bearing signs of age and use, along with a pleasing old patina.

DIMENSIONS:

High: 31 cm (12.2 inches).

Width: 15 cm (5.91 inches).

PROVENANCE: Acquired from the Canadian Art Market.