Russian Three Bar Crucifix with Two Vertical Side Arms

A whole Crucifixion scene, small enough to hold in one hand.

This three bar crucifix with two vertical side arms comes from Russia and dates to the 18th or 19th century, cast in bronze with enamel. Cast metal crosses and icons of this kind served Orthodox believers at home and on the road, and they are especially associated with the Old Believers. Christ hangs at the center beneath the sun and moon. Pairs of mourning figures fill the side arms. Angels and a holy face crown the top, with blue enamel filling the ground. Six and a half inches high.

It was made to be kept close.