Antique Russian Patriarch's cross, enamelled bronze 40x20 cm

Antique Russian Patriarch's cross, enamelled bronze 40x20 cm. Bronze cross with inner part in the shape of a Byzantine cross surrounded by 20 scenes celebrating the festivities of the Orthodox liturgical year. There are 16 great liturgical feasts celebrating episodes from the Old and the New Testament. Among the lateral scenes, just one is not from the Holy Scriptures: Saint Nicholas' representation.
The crucifix in the centre is represented with the typical Byzantine shape, with a third slanted crossbeam, symbolising the cross as a balance of justice. Under the body of Christ, stays Adam's skull, symbol of the whole humanity, redeemed from original sin thanks to his sacrifice. The upper part, richly decorated, represents the Byzantine cosmos with Christ the Saviour on the top, the Holy Spirit dove and two angels waiting to receive Jesus' body and soul. Over that, we found Our Lady of the Sign, with hands up and the Child inscribed in a circle. Still higher, we see again the Virgin with the Child, surrounded by circles with the four Evangelists. On the side of the cross, a Deesis with saints in supplication.
The cross is completed by a ray pattern on the upper part ending with six-wings angels.
Cross of the Patriarch made of bronze and polychrome enamel, from Moscow, measuring 38.5x23.5 cm, delivered with certificate of authenticity and export document.