ankh

The ankh is an ancient hieroglyphic symbol originating in ancient Egypt that was used to represent the word for life. Referred to often as the key of life and the key of the Nile, it represented eternal life in Ancient Egypt. An ankh is shaped like a cross, but instead of a continuing its vertical rise above the crossbar, there is a teardop-shaped loop. It is much used as a symbol of the Coptic Orthodox Church and is seen by many as a talisman symbolizing protection and well-being and was traditionally buried with pharaohs. A modified version is used on Ethiopian Crosses and in Christianity it also a symbol of afterlife.

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  • Antique Ethiopian Coptic Cross Pattée (E329QCE)

    $175.00
    Ht: 3.125″  W: 1.75″ | FREE SHIPPING WITHIN CONTINENTAL U.S.!

    This antique Ethiopian Cross combines several cultural traditions: an Egyptian round ankh surmounted on rounded cross pattée with flaring arms that narrow towards the center. This striking pendant is heavy and large with a massive presence softened by its smooth surface and simple elegance. Prior to the 20th-century, pendant crosses were often made in small villages by skilled local metal smiths that were simpler, yet strikingly beautiful and powerful.

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  • Antique Ethiopian Coptic Cross Pattée (E330ZCE)

    $165.00
    Ht: 2.625″  W: 1.5″  || FREE SHIPPING WITHIN CONTINENTAL U.S.!

    This simple but elegant Coptic Cross displays a commonly used tradition of including a circle surmounted on a Latin cross based on the Egyptian ankh set on a variation of a Cross Pattée with flaring arms. This unassuming yet striking pendant is heavy and large with a massive presence that is softened by its smooth surface and simple elegance.

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  • Antique/Vintage Ethiopian Coptic Cross, Axum (E325ZLX) $150

    $150.00
     Ht: 2.5″  W: 1.325″  | | FREE SHIPPING WITHIN CONTINENTAL U.S.

    The top of this early 20th century Ethiopian Cross is circular with pierced and etched circles enclosing a stylized cross. The circle reflects the Egyptian ankh but was reinterpreted by Copts to symbolize Christ’s halo, divinity and resurrection. The three arms are decorated with an etched crisscross matrix on the front and end in stylized rectangles. A stylized Cross-Pattée with flaring arms is enclosed in the center.  The necklace chain necklace is not included.

     

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