Description
Russian Orthodox Cross Pendant "ST. ANDREW", Silver & 24 Karat Gold Filled, Nilova Pustyn
Materials: Sterling Silver (925 grade), 24K Gilding, Blackening
Average weight: 18.3 grams
Size: 55 x 30 mm (including the bail)
Technique: casting, gilding, blackening, handmade
Symbolism and application ...of the item
This is a big men's cross. On the front side, you can see the crucifixion. The composition of this crucifixion has some unique details. Our Lord is shown as if radiating rays of light. Beneath his feet, there is a skull of Adam, as, according to the legend, Adam was buried at the foot of Mount Calvary. Above the head of the Savior is a sign IНЦI, meaning: "Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews". At the sides of the cross, we can see the Mother of God and St. John the Theologian, above the cross – the Holy Spirit in the form of a dove and the prepared throne (etymasy). On the sides, we can see a spear (with which Christ's ribs were pierced) and a cane (on which there was a sponge with vinegar, which was given to Jesus thirsty for water). On the backside, you can see the image of Andrew the First-Called, the first of the twelve apostles, who proved by his righteous deeds the right to be a follower of Christ. Behind him is depicted ancient Russia, the Kyiv mountains, where, according to legend, the apostle erected an Orthodox cross, with the prophetic words "here the great glory of God will shine". Saint Seraphim is on the ear. At the foot is the Kyiv-Pechersk Monastery. Gospel animals are depicted on four sides of the cross: Matthew is traditionally depicted as a winged angel, Mark as a winged lion, Luke as a winged calf, and John as a winged eagle.
The Apostle Andrew preached faith in Christ throughout his life, for which he was executed. He was martyred on the cross. The cross on which he was crucified is called "Andreevsky". Until now, many Christian believers pray before the Cross of St. Andrew the First-Called, asking for help in solving certain problems. In Russia, a special cult of the Apostle Andrew the First-Called has spread since the 1080s. The first church in honor of the Apostle Andrew was built in Kyiv in 1086 by the labors of the Grand Duke Vsevolod Yaroslavich, the son of Yaroslav the Wise. In 1698, the Russian Tsar Peter I instituted the first (and then remaining the highest) award of Russia – the Order of St. Andrew the First-Called, later he established the flag of the Russian fleet – Andreevsky. One of the miracles of St. Andrew: he once resurrected forty men who were on their way to receive a doctrine of faith, but who were drowned by a storm caused by the devil (you can see this beaten evil spirit under St. Andrew's feet). Apostle Andrew is the patron saint of Ukraine, Russia, Scotland, Romania, Greece, Sicily, and Amalfi; as well as sailors and fishermen.Why should you buy this item?
• The cross, though massive, is very elegant;
• Every detail is very clearly seen;
• The Apostle Andrew is revered as the founder and patron saint of the Constantinople Orthodox Church (which can be seen at the bottom of the cross).Need further information?
If you have any questions, please, do not hesitate to contact me, I'll be glad to answer them.
