From Lallibella, Ethiopia - carried by the High Priest in the Coptic Chruch. Cut from a single piece of brass and attached to a hollow, conical stem in which a wooden staff can be inserted. The cross is decorated with pierced work and engraved with complex, interwoven cruciform shapes and knots. Good condition with the usual wear from age. Such a cross was not for personal devotional purposes but was meant to be carried on a staff or pike by deacons and priests during feast days and church services. Ethiopia is unique for its ancient Christian culture. Sculptural and collectible.
PERIOD: 19th Century
ORIGIN: Ethiopia, Africa