**Originally Listed At $250**

Eastern Europe, Russia, ca. 19th century CE. A fantastic cast-brass three-bar crucifix replete with ornate depictions of classic Orthodox Christian iconography. Central to the cross is the crucified Christ standing upon a slanted footrest, his monogram IC XC displayed on either lateral end of the widest bar, with two downward-facing cherubs and a depiction of God the Father above him. The short topmost bar represents the sign reading "This is the King of the Jews" from Luke 23:38 that was nailed to the top of Christ's cross. Size: 3.75" W x 6.125" H (9.5 cm x 15.6 cm).

An image of Adam's skull in the cave rests at the bottom of the cross, and the monogram MAPE (the place of the cross has become Paradise) rests below his feet. This imagery is to remind us that Adam lost Paradise through forbidden knowledge, and that Christ will return us to it during the End of Days. Dark, navy blue and pale, sky blue enamel inlays create the background and make the foreground stand out. On the back is a common prayer: "As You were voluntarily raised upon the cross for our sake,/Grant mercy to those who are called by Your Name, O Christ God;/Gladden all Orthodox Christians by Your power,/Granting them victories over their adversaries,/By bestowing on them the Invincible trophy, Your weapon of Peace."

Provenance: private Orange County, California, USA collection

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#128546

Age-commensurate surface wear, slight bending to overall form, fading to some details and lettering, fading and small losses to enameled designs, tarnishing to brass surfaces, with small areas of light-green patina within some recessed details.