MEDIEVAL CHRISTIAN BRONZE CROSS - CRUSADES PERIOD
11th – 12th century AD
“Cross within a Cross” Design
(55 x 35 mm – 2.25 x 1.4 inches), weight 15.06 gm
A fine medieval bronze Latin cross, of simple, yet elegant construction. The “cross within a cross” design is seen on both sides. It was produced about the time of the 1st- 3rd Crusades, and is likely of German or French origin. This cross retains its suspension loop.
In an exceptional state of preservation with attractive green and brown patina. From a German Collection.
By the 5th and 6th centuries, the Cross had replaced the Chi-Rho as the standard emblem of Christian religious devotion. Its meaning transcended that of the simple monogram to visually recall the crucifixion. Crosses were worn by individuals from every social stratum, from the elaborate bejeweled golden cross of the patriarch to the simple crosses of the common man. The word crusade, which is derived from the Latin crux (cross), is a reference to the biblical injunction that Christians carry their cross. Crusaders wore a red cross sewn on their tunics to indicate they had assumed the cross and were soldiers of Christ. Many also wore a pectoral cross around their neck.
