298

Large pectoral cross depicting the Crucifixion, 19th century

Bronze casting
Height × width: 19 × 10 cm Weight: 190.3 g.
The work displays the canonical structure of the Russian eight-pointed cross (with three crossbars), in which the lower slanting crossbar serves as a symbolic footrest. At the center of the cast is Christ Crucified, while the upper register elevates the drama to the heavenly realm with two adoring angels in flight, surmounted by a six-winged Seraph. The upper terminal of the cross, incorporating a suspension loop, is adorned with the Mandylion, the acheiropoietos ("image not made by human hands") of Edessa, miraculously impressed upon a cloth. These imposing crosses were worn ceremonially over the vestments during communal processions, serving as true emblems of faith for the Old Believers. The surface is notably worn as a result of repeated polishing. The Old Believers regarded tarnish and oxidation as signs of corruption and therefore sought to keep their metal icons bright and lustrous. Whenever an icon began to oxidize, it was simply rubbed with a cloth lightly dusted with chalk, sand, ash, or powdered brick, restoring its shine almost immediately.
29/07/2026 00:59:47
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€ 150,00 / 200,00
Estimate
40,00 €
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Live auction 396

OLD ORTHODOX ICONS FROM 17TH UNTIL 20TH CENTURY. Including a collection of important Traveling Russian Icons

Palazzo Caetani Lovatelli, tue 29 September 2026
SINGLE SESSION 29/09/2026 Hours 15:00
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