Description
Size: 28×25 mm / 1.10×0.98 in
Weight ~2,5 g / ~0.07 ozCross pendant "Crucifixion. Cross of Calvary with Prayer".
This miniature, compact cross pendant could be a great gift for an infant's baptism. In addition, being both simple and elegant, the cross pendant &...quot;Crucifixion. Cross of Calvary with Prayer" is convenient to wear casually either under or over one's clothes.
The symbolism of the cross pendant "Crucifixion. Cross of Calvary with Prayer"
The shape of this small cross is similar to that of Russian reliquary crosses made in the 14th-15th centuries. The smooth, rounded keel shape of the ends resembles the traditional depiction of the angelic forces.
The front of the cross has an engraved eight-pointed cross with a double contour. Inside, one can see a relief figure of the crucified Christ. This is consistent with the model of the Crucifixion where the Savior's figure seems to be embedded in the cross. The latter, on the other hand, resembles a cruciform vessel or container. This enables one to perceive the Cross as more than just an instrument of execution. It is a visual illustration of the continuity between the Holy Cross and Its predecessor, the Ark of the Covenant. For example, St. Isaac the Syrian wrote that "the unlimited power of God dwells in the Cross, as it used to dwell, in the most direct sense, in the arc the Chosen People worshipped with the utmost reverence and awe". In addition, when depicted this way, the Cross of Calvary becomes an allusion both to the Communion Chalice and the baptismal font. This, in turn, allows one to establish a symbolic link between the Crucifixion and the two major sacraments of the New Testament Church: Baptism and Communion.
The domed free space on the outer part of the cross is covered with floral ornaments. They stand for the Resurrection and the Eternal Life discovered through the salvific sacrifice of the Lord.
The reverse of the cross looks like the inside of a reliquary's wing. The concave part carries a recessed eight-pointed Cross of Calvary, which appears to be nested inside the cross. This emphasizes the particular sanctity of the Holy Cross. It is this sanctity that mandated that particles of the Venerable Wood be stored inside reliquary boxes or crosses.
Inscribed upon the "embedded" eight-pointed cross is the prayer to the Precious and Life-Giving Cross, based on the words of Psalm 67: "Let God arise, let His enemies be scattered: let them also that hate Him flee before Him." This prayer is believed to have a special protective significance. As a result, it is often found on cross pendants and is particularly popular among the Old Believers.
Technical details of the cross pendant "Crucifix"
The cross pendant "Crucifix" is made from grade-925 sterling silver and is decorated with blackening. At the top, there is a fixed round ear with a large hoop for threading a chain. The ear and hoop, as well as the floral ornaments, are plated with 24k plating. The pendant is small, with a weight of a mere 0.07 oz (2,5 g) and a size of 1.10×0.98 in (28 x 25 mm). These compact dimensions make it inconspicuous and easy to conceal under one's clothes should one wish to do so.
