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Cypress cross, in a metal frame.

Cypress cross, in a metal frame.

Inv. #
М-35 ЛВС-31
Dimensions
17 × 5.5 × 2 cm
Materials

Description

An altar cross, four-armed, of cypress, in a silver frame with a handle.

On the front of the cross, against a finely stippled background, is depicted the cross-"Crucifixion," on whose upper crossbar is the inscription "INRI" ("Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews"), above which is a triangle with the "All-Seeing Eye" (a symbol of God the Father, the "Eye of Providence"); in the field of the crossbar are the inscriptions "IS" and "KHS." At the base of the cross is a depiction of Golgotha and the Head of Adam.

On the reverse, against a finely stippled background, is depicted the scene of the Theophany (Baptism) of Christ; above is the Holy Spirit in the form of a dove in radiance.

The silver frame is decorated along the arms with an engraved floral ornament (stylized leaves, twigs) and wavy rays of radiance emanating from the crossing. On the ends of the side and upper arms are fixing pins. The handle is faceted and hollow, with a widened lower "apple" (knop) base and ring-shaped grips.

The object belonged to the pre-war (pre-1941) part of the collection of the Historical Museum.

Note: an altar cross is a cross bearing a depiction of the Crucifixion and fitted with a handle, which is kept permanently on the altar table in the sanctuary, together with the antimension, the Gospel, and other essential items of church plate. The priest gives this cross to parishioners to kiss at the end of each Liturgy, and also invokes God's blessing on them by making the sign of the cross with it. It is also used in the performance of many of the Sacraments.