Pendant Cross (Primary Title)
Neck Cross (Alternate Title)

Unknown (Artist)

late 18th–early 20th century
Ethiopian
silver, copper alloy
Place Made,Ethiopia
Overall: 2 11/32 × 1 9/16 × 1/32 in. (5.95 × 3.97 × 0.08 cm)
2012.329
As a sign of faith and for personal protection, believers often wear a cross suspended from a cord, called a matäb, which is received at baptism. The tradition dates from the 15th century, when Emperor Zär’a Ya’eqob decreed that all Christians should wear crosses. These handsome works illustrate the diversity of design and craftsmanship characteristic of numerous local traditions.
From the Robert and Nancy Nooter Collection, Adolph D. and Wilkins C. Williams Fund
Image released via Creative Commons CC-BY-NC

Some object records are not complete and do not reflect VMFA's full and current knowledge. VMFA makes routine updates as records are reviewed and enhanced.