Antique/Vintage Ethiopian Fleury Cross Pendant, Trefoil Arms (E335)

Description

No other region has produced the quantity, quality, and diversity as the crosses from the Africa Ethiopian Highlands, the second nation to adopt Christianity as its official religion. The uniqueness of the Ethiopian Cross stems from influences of many ancient civilizations: Coptic, Celtic, Egyptian, Byzantine and Greek. Ethiopian pendant crosses were made in a variety of sizes, designs, styles, and ornamentation. The intricate designs and symbols on these crosses are metaphors for the religious beliefs, ideology, and practices of the Ethiopian Church readily recognized by devotees.

This beautiful and elegant coin silver pendant is a modified Fleury Cross – a Latin cross with each arm ending in a stylized flower, typically a fleur-de-lis which has multiple meanings in Christian symbolism and heraldry, representing the Holy Trinity. It is centered with raised Latin Cross with bordered edge with an incised x-shape in the middle.which is an apotropaic symbol believed to protect against bad luck and evil spirits and heal the body and spirit.

The three florals trefoil lobes at the arms symbolize the Holy Trinity, the Virgin Mary, new growth, as well as  purity, light, and virtues such as faith and wisdom and renewal of life. When combined the arms represent the 12 Apostles who spread the message of the Gospel. The Trinity is also symbolized by its tri-partite design and by repeating basic motifs on the cross 3 times that reflects the relationship between God and humanity.

Although new motifs and design elements have been added over time, makers of this crosses have retained the fundamental characteristics, forms, and common symbols in their individualized creations. Made using the lost wax technique from coin-silver with an attached suspension loop allowing a chain or cord to be threaded through it, this rare and beautiful piece is a one-of-a-kind piece.

This one-of-a-kind pendant in excellent condition with normal signs of wear 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. 

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