flat diamond-shaped top section with woven openwork motif; solid square central section incised on one side with 12 heads and torsos of haloed apostles, some holding small crosses; back incised with three haloed standing figures; two figures on sides hold staffs (or swords?) over their shoulders; central figure holds baby Jesus and may have stylized wings; rectangular section below, incised with repeating designs

Processional cross, late 15th century

Unknown artist, expand_more
Not on Viewexpand_more

Ethiopia was the first African nation to adopt Christianity, more than 1600 years ago. By the 1400s, Christian art in Ethiopia was flourishing, combining Christian imagery with an expressive use of pattern and form. Nowhere else, for instance, are there so many types of Christian crosses.

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Details
Title
Processional cross
Role
Artist
Accession Number
2009.39.1
Curator Approved

This record is from historic documentation and may not have been reviewed by a curator, so may be inaccurate or incomplete. Our records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.

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flat diamond-shaped top section with woven openwork motif; solid square central section incised on one side with 12 heads and torsos of haloed apostles, some holding small crosses; back incised with three haloed standing figures; two figures on sides hold staffs (or swords?) over their shoulders; central figure holds baby Jesus and may have stylized wings; rectangular section below, incised with repeating designs