Russian Bronze Cross, Based

A stepped outline, a crowded little heaven at the top, and a skull tucked in at the foot.

This cross is Russian, made around 1780 in bronze, and mounted on a base. Cast bronze crosses of this kind were made in large numbers for Orthodox believers in Russia, often by Old Believer workshops. In relief, the crucified Christ hangs with arms outstretched along the main bar, beneath a panel of figures at the top. Below the feet a skull rests beneath Golgotha, a standard feature of Orthodox crucifixion imagery. The high points are worn to soft gold. The cross is 4.5 inches high and 2.75 wide, and stands 5.75 high on its base.

Small in the hand, and plainly made to be kept close.