Vintage Ethiopian Cross, Tri-Partite Design, (E307)

Description

The uniqueness of Ethiopian Crosses stems from influences of many ancient civilizations: Coptic, Celtic, Egyptian, Byzantine, Greek, and Latin. Axum Crosses which are the most popular Ethiopian pendant crosses use geometric shapes, mostly squares or rectangles as their foundation, and are embellished with religious and apotropaic (having the power to prevent evil) symbols. The cross itself, as well as design features in the shape of a cross, are believed to ward off evil.

This vintage Ethiopian Cross from the Northern Ethiopian Highlands in Africa is an Axum Cross named for the town where it was crafted. As the most popular of Ethiopian pendant crosses. they are embellished with religious and apotropaic symbols. The bottom  is a tri-partite design depicting the Trinity. Each of the three arms has three sided elaborate extensions with an etched circle that contain a round “eye.” In the Coptic Church, the circle represents the eternal and everlasting love of God that is demonstrated in Christ’s Crucifixion and resurrection, a central belief in Coptic doctrine. Circles also are apotropaic “protective eyes” believed to imbue the cross with special magic powers that can bring blessings and repel evil forces and harm. The etched decoration embellishes the front and back, although the front is more elaborately incised.

Using the lost wax technique with coin-silver, it is a one-of-a-kind pendant in excellent condition with normal signs of wear consistent with age and use and a fine patina. An attached suspension-loop allows a chain or cord to be threaded through it. The coin silver chain is not included and may be purchased separately. Call 213-568-3030 or email [email protected] for chain options.

For information and bibliographic citations click here for the blog The Evolution and Brilliance of Ethiopian Crosses