Antique 19th Century Abyssinian Ethiopian Coptic Orthodox Brass Blessing Cross

This is an authentic antique Abyssinian Ethiopian Coptic Orthodox brass Blessing Cross from the 19th century. The cross is intricately cast in two pieces and attached together. It features an oval central panel that is pierced and engraved in openwork, displaying a complex pattern with two crosses surrounded by an aureole. The long handle, which is square in section, is adorned with an elaborate finial composed of two small crosses.
 
A blessing cross is a hand cross held by a priest or bishop in the Eastern Orthodox Church when he gives a benediction. It is often made of precious metal, though in Ethiopia, blessing crosses are often made out of brass.
When the blessing cross is used in the blessing of holy water, the priest will dip it in the water and make the sign of the Cross three times. In the Oriental Orthodox Churches, the blessing cross tends not to have an icon, and the clergy will often carry it for most of the service. In some traditions, the priest will always have the blessing cross with him, even outside the church.
 
Due to the high demand for antique Ethiopian Ecclesiastical Art, the market has been flooded with reproductions of Ethiopian processional crosses that have recently been made in Ethiopia, Egypt, and Morocco. However, we would like to assure our clients that the Blessing Cross we are offering is a 100% authentic antique 19th-century Ethiopian Solomonic dynasty Coptic processional cross.
The buyer will be provided with a certificate of authenticity.
 
CONDITION: Overall, the Blessing Cross is in good condition, with signs of age and use and a pleasing old patina.
 
DIMENSIONS:
High: 29 cm (11.42 inches).
Width: 11 cm (4.33 inches).
 
PROVENANCE: Acquired from the Canadian Art Market.