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LOT 0377
Ethiopian Engraved Bronze Cross with Figures of the Holy Fathers
CIRCA 1450-1480 A.D.
12 in. (404 grams, 30.5 cm).
A bifacial Yämäṩor Mäsqäl processional cross finial comprising an openwork flat-section panel surmounted by a cross, with interlaced tendril design engraved with four seated saints on both faces in low-relief; tapering tubular socket with circumferential ribbing, lateral angled crosses. [No Reserve]
ProvenanceEx central London gallery.
This lot is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D’Amato.
Cf. Chojnacki, S., Major Themes in Ethiopian Painting, indigenous developments, the influence of foreign models and their adaptation, from the 13th to the 19th century, Wiesbaden, 1983, figs. 72-73; Chojnacki, S., Ethiopian Crosses, a Cultural History and Chronology, Milano, 2006, fig.83, for similar processional crosses.
FootnotesIn contrast with the hand cross that is fitted with a grip, the processional cross has a hollow shaft into which the pole supporting the cross is inserted, although the use of both is interconnected in the liturgy and ceremonial aspects of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church. In Amharic, it received the name of yämäṩor mäsqäl or "cross to [carry] on a pole", the term mäṩor also meaning a wooden handle. Processional crosses are used on "every qaddase day" occasions - an expression meaning whenever the liturgy is performed. This includes displaying the cross during the reading of the Gospels and other sacred texts, as well as holding it up to be viewed at the end of the service for the final blessing.
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AUCTIONS:
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LOT 0377
Ethiopian Engraved Bronze Cross with Figures of the Holy Fathers
Sold for (Inc. bp): £2,080
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Bronze Knocker Decorated with Lion Mask
Germany, 16th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £3,900
Comprising a lion-mask cast in high-relief with retouched detailing to the mane and muzzle, substantial ring in the mouth, flange rim with six holes to accept fixing bolts. 2.81 kg, 26.8 cm
with Herbelin Auction, 3 April 2024, no.110. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by a search certificate number no.12556-230729. This lot has been cleared against the Art Loss Register database, and is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D’Amato. -
Chinese Style Hardstone Plaque
20th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £20
Rectangular in plan, pierced at upper edge; obverse with low-relief scene of a scribe, reverse with dense text. 37 grams, 57 mm
From a Parisian collection, 1980-2000s. This lot is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D’Amato. -
Renaissance Gold Ring with Burmese Spinel 'Ruby'
Late 16th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £9,100
Comprising a granule and scrolled frond to each shoulder, rectangular stepped cell to the bezel with inset table-cut Burmese spinel 'ruby'. 6.73 grams, 28.14 mm overall, 17.50 x 19.77 mm internal diameter (approximate size British O, USA 7, Europe 14.98, Japan 14)
Private collection of a North London lady before 2000. Property of a London gentleman. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by a search certificate number no.12554-232024. This lot has been cleared against the Art Loss Register database, and is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D’Amato.
