Processional Cross (Primary Title)

Unknown (Artist)

12th–13th century
Zagwe
copper alloy
Africa,Ethiopia
Overall: 10 × 6 1/4 × 1 1/8 in. (25.4 × 15.88 × 2.86 cm)
97.120
The thickness of this processional cross exemplifies the prevalent format during Ethiopia's Zagwe dynasty of the 12th-13th century. When its hollow base was fitted over a long wooden staff, the cross could be elevated during processions. Two lower arms that connect the base seved as a loop from which a cloth was hung, a uniquely Ethiopian feature for dressing the cross when in use.
Kathleen Boone Samuels Memorial Fund
Image released via Creative Commons CC-BY-NC

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