Russian Orthodox Cast Brass Blessing Cross
Religious metalwork, Blessing Cross (Pectoral or Altar Cross) • Unknown Russian metalwork foundry; possibly Moscow or Tula workshops
Style & Movement
Russian Orthodox liturgical art, influence of Byzantine and Neo-Russian revival
Medium & Technique
Cast brass or copper alloy with chased details and heavy gilding (likely fire-gilded or electroplated)
Creation Period
Late 19th to early 20th century (Late Imperial Russian Period)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 15-20 cm in height; vertical cruciform format
Subject Description
An eight-pointed Russian Orthodox cross featuring the crucified Christ. The top bar depicts the Mandylion (Face of Christ) or Heavenly Father; the slanted footrest represents the scales of justice. Surrounding the figure are Church Slavonic liturgical inscriptions and iconography including the skull of Adam at the base.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good to Very Good; retains much of its original luster with minor surface abrasions
Estimated Market Value
$150 - $400 USD
Auction Estimate
$100 - $250 USD
Provenance History
Likely brought from Russia or Eastern Europe as a personal devotional object; no specific labels visible, but typical of mass-produced yet high-quality liturgical brass of the 1800s-1900s
Art Historical Significance
Significant as a representative piece of Russian Orthodox piety and the tradition of 'copper-cast icons' (medno-litaya ikona) which were durable alternatives to painted icons.
Notable Features
Detailed Church Slavonic inscriptions, an unusually bright yellow-gold finish suggesting high-quality gilding, and the specific eight-pointed design unique to Eastern Christianity.
Condition Issues
Minor oxidation in recessed areas, slight wear to the gilding on high points, and minor scratches consistent with age and handling.
Conservation Recommendations
Avoid abrasive cleaning agents; keep in a low-humidity environment to prevent verdigris; handle with gloves to prevent oil transfer.