Antique Ethiopian Coin Silver Stippled Pendant Cross with Raised Bosses, Axum (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.

Made in Northern Ethiopia Highlands in the Tigray or Amhara Region this gracefully shaped  Axum Style cross is embellished with six round protruding bosses and etched dots framing each arm that were added after the lost wax process. This cross is a variant of flared Latin or classic Axumite style cross characterized by straight, triangularly expanding arms that with in curved, high-relief ends. The semi-spherical silver bosses symbolize the Stigmata—the five crucifixion wounds of Christ. The hand-punched stippling provides a textured surface that scatters candlelight and symbolizes the heavenly stars  or the omnipresence of God watching over the earth. 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.

Made by traditional hand-forging, lost-wax cast base with applied bosses and punched stippling is a one-of-a-kind coin-silver,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. 

AI Market Valuation Summary

AI rates this piece as  Premium Collector Value for the following reasons:

Its three dimensional surface differs from many old flared crosses are that are flat and is accentuated by the of large projecting polished bosses, all set against a completely matte, stippled background. The natural color cast is typical of old coin silver and deep soot oxidation inside the tiny stamped dots attest to age and use.  The  dense, hand-punched stippling produces a unique texture and reflects the skill level of the artisan who created it.  The iconography is not as frequently used in these Coptic crosses.

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