Vintage Ethiopian Axum Coin Silver Coptic Cross (E306YBL) $75

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 symbols. It is centered with a lattice pattern of a never-ending knot created by pierced geometric forms enhanced by etched lines to the piece’s front and back.  The flared arms have modified rectangle that may represent the Ark of the Covenant. The cross itself, as well as design features in the shape of a cross, are believed to ward off evil. The knotted patterns of endless lines that overlap and weave within each other thwart malevolent beings from entering or reaching the wearer. The incised and scratched criss-cross or mesh patterns also conquer demons by trapping them inside the net they create.  The five small circles are “protective eye” apotropaic symbols to ward off evil and promote healing. Using the lost wax technique with coin-silver, it is a one-of-a-kind  pendant is in very good condition with normal signs of wear consistent with age and use. 

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