LOT 0370

Ethiopian Processional Cross

17TH-18TH CENTURY A.D.

16 1/2 in. (19 1/4 in.) (600 grams, 42 cm high (49cm high including stand)).

A bifacial wooden Qäqwami Mäsqäl processional cross, three-lobed extremities on three sides, decorated with geometric motifs representing crosses of different types, supported by a lanceolate shaft with two round openwork openings; socketted shaft with vertical grooves and fitted with a double horizontal groove; inscriptions on two of the lobed sides of the cross; accompanied by a custom-made display stand.

Acquired on the London art market, 2003.
UK private collection.

See Korabiewicz, W., The Ethiopian cross, Addis Ababa, 1973, fig.102, for similar.

The large wooden crosses are often used by ddbtdras, who are unordained members of the Orthodox Ethiopian clergy, for their liturgical dance. In the countryside, one or two of these crosses are kept on the church window-sills close to the area where the dance is performed, instead of being kept in the church storehouse. Sometimes they are mounted upon a shaft and worn in procession. The characteristic feature of a processional cross is a socketted shaft which serves for mounting them on a strong pole known as masor or handle. Although technically the shaft serves to support the cross, according to the interpretation of Ethiopian church scholars, its real function is to protect the cross from being touched.