Antique/Vintage Ethiopian Cross Pattée with Bosses, Shoa Region, (E328)

Description

No other region has produced the quantity, quality and diversity of the crosses from the Africa Ethiopian Highlands, the second nation to adopt Christianity as its official religion.  Ethiopian crosses were made in a variety of sizes, designs, styles and ornamentation which are metaphors for the religious beliefs, ideology and practices of the Ethiopian Church readily recognized by devotees.

This  cross Pattée with flaring arms narrows towards the center and expands at the rounded ends.  Its graceful shape is embellished with six round protruding bosses and etched dots framing each arm that were added after the lost wax process. This weighty pendant has a fine patina  Often crosses made prior to the early 20^th century in small villages by skilled local metal smiths were simpler, yet they are strikingly beautiful and powerful. This type of cross historically has been popular in the Shoa area of Ethiopia, a historical kingdom in central Ethiopia.

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