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LOT 0369
Ethiopian Processional Cross
15TH-16TH CENTURY A.D.
10.2 in. (14.8 in.) (55 grams, 26 cm (37.5 cm including stand)).
A bifacial bronze Yämäṩor Mäsqäl processional cross finial with later replaced socket, flanking bird motifs and dense block of tendrils and wheels with seven cross-shaped finials, central panel with Virgin Mary, Holy Child and angels to the front, saints and Evangelists to the back.
ProvenanceAcquired on the London art market, 2006.
UK private collection.
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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Tudor Figural Chafing Dish Mount
16th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £20
A bifacial anthropomorphic copper-alloy chafing dish mount, comprising a flat plate in the shape of a man's head and torso in profile, incised on both sides outlining stylised facial features and a hood or cap. 11.1 grams, 33 mm
Found near Brenzett, Kent, UK. Property of a Kent gentleman. Accompanied by a copy of the British Museum's Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS) report no. KENT-561C41.
The PAS report dates this item to 1575-1650. Such supports were used in sets of three on chafing dishes. Scholars believe they were produced in Germany, Denmark and the Low Countries from 1575 onwards, remaining in use in poorer households until the middle of the 18th century A.D. Such a find is rare in England. -
Marble Head of a Roman Emperor
20th century A.D.Estimate: £4,000 - 6,000 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £2,000
A carved marble bust of a mature male with stern features, likely the emperor Carus, shown with short, neatly-dressed hair and beard; mounted on a custom-made display stand. 10.4 kg, 38 cm high including stand
French collection, 1960s-early 2000s. From an important Paris gallery, France. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.11694-199338.
Carus reigned 282-283 A.D. He served as a prefect of the guard to emperor Probus, whom he succeeded. Whilst leading a campaign against the Sassanians, Carus died suddenly and under mysterious circumstances, leading to the belief that he was struck by lightning. Little is known of his life, owing to the relative instability of that time period. Whether he had Probus murdered, or whether he was killed by mutinous troops was disputed even by his contemporaries. Carus was succeeded by his sons Carinus and Numerian, although their reigns were short-lived and his dynasty was soon supplanted. Carinus’ lasting legacy was principally the suppression of the authority of the senate. He has gone down in history as one of the tyrants of ancient Rome. -
Gilt Reliquary Pendant
17th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £293
A gilt copper-alloy reliquary pendant of oval form, front face portraying the lamb with cross and flag symbolising Christ crucified, the relic visible between the openwork, solid reverse plate depicting the Virgin and Child seated beneath an arch; openwork flourishes to the frame circumference; integral suspension loop. 34.76 grams, 56 mm
Acquired early 2000s. Property of a Birmingham, UK, collector. Property of an Essex, UK, gentleman.
