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 is a modified coin silver Fleury Cross – coin silver Fleury Cross centered with raised Latin Cross with bordered edge. A Fleury is 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,

Three florals trefoil lobes at the arms symbolize the Holy Trinity, the Virgin Mary, new growth and renewal of life. centered with raised Latin Cross with bordered edge. Three florals trefoil lobes at the arms symbolize the Holy Trinity, new growth, renewal of life as well as  purity, light, and virtues such as faith and wisdom. When combined the three 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. It is centered with raised Latin Cross with an x-shape in the middle. The incised cross in the center is an apotropaic symbol believed to protect against bad luck and evil spirits and heal the body and spirit.

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.

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

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