Ethiopia is home to one of the oldest continuous Christian traditions
in the world, and Ethiopian silversmiths produce religious jewellery
as an expression of that tradition. Star of David symbols are evident
in design and emphasize the relationship of Christian Ethiopians to
Israel, King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba. These individual Coptic
crosses are cast and made in various styles, designs, and sizes. They
can be hand-cut from various metal: silver, iron, gold, and brass–and
cast using the lost wax method. Some Ethiopian crosses are made from
wood, these ones are made of silver alloy. Designs are as varied as
the regions they come from, and crosses are generally named after the
towns or provinces where they are made. The use of these crosses is
essentially religious. Crosses like these are known as processional
crosses. They do have base and are carried during religious
services. Each cross is individual. The designs vary from one cross to
another. No two are identical.
Sizes
Small: Approx 20cmH x 10cm to 12cm cmW
Medium: Approx 30cmH x 15cmW
