Russian Old Believer Cross Pendant

A flat pendant with scalloped edges and a fine cross incised on its face.

This old believer cross pendant is from Novgorod, Russia, and dates to the 18th or 19th century. It is bronze. Cast bronze crosses and icons were made in large numbers in Russia, and Old Believer workshops are generally known for devotional metalwork carried by individuals. A cast, lobed plaque with a pierced loop at the top. A tall cross with extra crossbars is incised in the center, with tiny letters and lines in the corners. Dark brown and softly worn. It is 0.75 inches long and 1.5 high.

Small in size, but every line is deeply felt.