Pendant cross
Artist
Unknown
CultureEthiopian
Date20th century
MediumMetal
Dimensions3 3/16 × 1 15/16 in. (8.1 × 4.9 cm)
Credit LineGifts of Julia Leverenz
Object number2017.31.5
Not on view
DescriptionMetal pendant cross from Ethiopia. Pendant crosses are a type of material/ visual culture within Ethiopian Christianity. They are portable/ wearable objects that are suspended from the neck of their possessor, on a blue cord called Matäb. One may recieve such jewelry during ceremonies like baptisms. They are not exclusively worn by one group within the religion, many are comprised of metals using the loss wax method (also called cire perdue). The casting method uses materials that create a delicate casing that would not be stable for additional use after the initial creation leading to the unique nature of the crosses. They are still produced today. The name of these objects (pendant crosses) comes from the formation of the suspension loop and for some crosses, hinged pieces underneath the loop or within the body of the cross. The cultural name of the objects are Yäləbb (Pectoral Cross) Yädärät (Chest cross) and yangät mäsqäl (cross). The cross symbolizes the crucifixion, resurrection, and overcoming death.
ca. 1939
