Ethiopia, Mid 20th Century
For centuries, the Ethiopian Orthodox Church has created some of Christianity’s most distinctive sacred objects. Rather than depicting suffering, Ethiopian crosses celebrate resurrection through geometry, rhythm, and light.
This hand cast brass cross reflects that ancient tradition. Its intricate openwork design forms an endless pattern of intersecting lines, while the pierced lattice handle recalls the blessing crosses carried by Ethiopian clergy during liturgical processions and feast days.
Unlike many Western devotional objects, Ethiopian crosses rarely present a crucified figure. Instead, the cross itself becomes the proclamation, expressing eternity, divine order, and the triumph of life over death.
Cast using traditional techniques and finished by hand, this piece bears the quiet irregularities that distinguish handmade devotional work. Its warm patina and gentle wear speak to years of careful handling and reverent use.
Whether displayed as a work of sacred art or kept as a personal devotional object, it carries forward one of Christianity’s oldest uninterrupted artistic traditions.
Details
• Origin: Ethiopia
• Date: Mid 20th Century (circa 1950–1980)
• Material: Cast brass
• Technique: Lost wax casting with hand chased decoration
• Condition: Very good vintage condition with a rich, naturally aged patina and minor wear consistent with age and use.
Important Note
All sales are final, each piece is one-of-a-kind
Please note the shipping, pick-up and in-Paris delivery options at check-out
Ethiopia, Mid 20th Century
For centuries, the Ethiopian Orthodox Church has created some of Christianity’s most distinctive sacred objects. Rather than depicting suffering, Ethiopian crosses celebrate resurrection through geometry, rhythm, and light.
This hand cast brass cross reflects that ancient tradition. Its intricate openwork design forms an endless pattern of intersecting lines, while the pierced lattice handle recalls the blessing crosses carried by Ethiopian clergy during liturgical processions and feast days.
Unlike many Western devotional objects, Ethiopian crosses rarely present a crucified figure. Instead, the cross itself becomes the proclamation, expressing eternity, divine order, and the triumph of life over death.
Cast using traditional techniques and finished by hand, this piece bears the quiet irregularities that distinguish handmade devotional work. Its warm patina and gentle wear speak to years of careful handling and reverent use.
Whether displayed as a work of sacred art or kept as a personal devotional object, it carries forward one of Christianity’s oldest uninterrupted artistic traditions.
Details
• Origin: Ethiopia
• Date: Mid 20th Century (circa 1950–1980)
• Material: Cast brass
• Technique: Lost wax casting with hand chased decoration
• Condition: Very good vintage condition with a rich, naturally aged patina and minor wear consistent with age and use.
Important Note
All sales are final, each piece is one-of-a-kind
Please note the shipping, pick-up and in-Paris delivery options at check-out
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