Ethiopia - 14th - 15th C.

Copper, 27,2 cm

Provenance:
Colette Ghysels collection, Brussels

This exceptionally well-preserved processional cross bears a close resemblance to the one belonging to the Smithsonian Museum of African Art (inv.2004-7-8). The way the central cross is surrounded by an intricate pattern of smaller crosses around a central shape is a striking common feature.The addition of a star-shaped pattern surrounding the open-worked central cross, and the more elaborately engraved details make the one presented here even more delicate and complex. The small crosses radiating from the center allude to the symbolic, regenerative properties of the cross.Processional crosses that follow this pattern also called "wheel" crosses, are typical for the province of Lasta, site of the churches of Lalibala.