Orthodox Cross From Mount Athos, Carved Wood, Silver Setting, Coral Beads, Dated 1877

Table cross from Mount Athos, carved on both sides and adorned with coral
Mount Athos, dated 1877

Wood finely carved in bas-relief on both sides, with a silver setting and red coral beads. The main side features Christ crucified in the center, flanked by the Virgin Mary and Saint John in the side panels. Below is Adam’s skull, evoking Golgotha. Half-length depictions of saints occupy the upper and lower compartments.

The reverse depicts the Baptism of Christ in the Jordan River, with Saint John the Baptist and angels, complemented by figures of saints in the upper and lower registers. The reliefs are distinguished by the finely incised folds of the garments and the stylized architectural elements.

The silver setting highlights the various compartments with beaded borders. Red coral beads are attached to the side rings. The cross rests on a faceted stem, punctuated by molded rings, and a slightly domed circular base, engraved with a radiating zigzag pattern, an inscription, and the date “1877.”

Signs of age and wear; partial wear on the reliefs.