Processional cross, 18th Century
Ethiopia
sold
EUR 2,000
Provenance
Fouad Tekalign (son of the Ethiopian collector / trader Besepa Tekalign)Belgian Private Collection
Size
H: 35,5 cm
H: 14.0 inch
Description
brass, base
Corpus in openwork design with intertwined ornaments and linear engravings. Characters in “Ge’ez” are engraved on the rectanguar recesses on both sides of the shaft. “Ge’ez” is the liturgical language of the Ethiopian Tewahedo Church.
The processional cross is an important part of many liturgical acts and is carried forward as a sign of blessing in festive processions, visible from afar.
Like most liturgical utensils, the crosses were primarily made in monastic workshops using the lost-wax casting process. The crosses are therefore always unique.