Russian Bronze Ceremonial Cross, Based

Ten inches of bronze, and hardly a quarter inch of it left empty.

This ceremonial cross comes from Tver, Russia, and dates to the 18th century. It is bronze, mounted on a black base. Cast bronze crosses like this were made in Russia for household devotion and for travelers, durable enough to carry or to set in a home's icon corner, and they are often linked with Old Believer communities. Raised panels crowd the arms with saints and scenes from the life of Christ, and the crucified figure at the center shines brightest. Winged heads run along the top. Green traces gather in the recesses. Ten and three quarter inches high.

It asks for very little room and a good deal of attention.