Pectoral cross depicting the Crucifixion, 18th century

Bronze casting

Height × width: 8.5 × 6 cm Weight: 78.0 g.

Enriched with two side panels depicting the four mourning figures of the tradition: the Virgin and Saint Martha on the left, and the Evangelist John and the centurion Longinus on the right. The top of the cross, which incorporates a small tab with a suspension loop, bears two flying angels in adoration and the Mandylion, the “acheropita” face of Edessa miraculously imprinted on the veil. The surface is heavily worn, as the Old Believers considered tarnish (oxidation, darkening) a sign of corruption and preferred metal icons to remain polished. When an icon began to oxidize, it was simply rubbed quickly with a cloth lightly sprinkled with chalk, sand, ash, or brick dust, restoring its shine.Although the cross shows evidence that a suspension loop was intended indicated by a small metal projection there is actually no hole at the back for hanging.