Back to browse highlights

Processional Cross

Date:
ca. 1150–75
Geography:
Made in Asturias, Spain
Culture:
Spanish
Medium:
Silver, partially gilt on wood core, carved gems, jewels
Dimensions:
Overall: 23 1/4 x 19in. (59.1 x 48.3cm)
Classification:
Metalwork
Credit Line:
Gift of J. Pierpont Morgan, 1917
Accession Number:
17.190.1406
  • Description

    The figure of Christ flanked by the Virgin and Saint John dominates the front of this Spanish processional cross from the Church of San Salvador de Fuentes in the province of Oviedo. Above the large crystal, which once held a relic, an angel swings a censer. At the bottom, Adam rises from his grave—traditionally believed to be the hill of Golgotha, where Christ was crucified. The juxaposition boldly portrays the scriptural passage: "For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive" (I Corinthians 15:22). The reverse illustrates the Lamb of God surrounded by the beasts that symbolize the authors of the Four Gospels. It also bears a Latin inscription, which translates, "In honor of the Holy Savior: (Sanccia [Sancha] Guidisalvi had me made or made me)." Sanccia, a woman's name, refers to a female donor, but contemporary records do mention women artists working at this time in Spain. Supported by a wooden core, the figural decoration is formed from silver worked in such high relief that all of the figures' heads except Christ's and the Virgin's have broken off.

  • Signatures, Inscriptions, and Markings

    Inscription: [on reverse]: [IN HO]NORE : S[AN]C[T]I : SA/LVATORIS : SA/NCCIA : GVIDIS/ALVI : ME : FECIT; [translation]: In honor of the Holy Savior (or, Saint Salvator), Sanccia [Sancha] Guidisalvi had me made (or, made me)

  • Provenance

    E. Guilhou, Paris; [ Arthur Sambon, Paris (sold 1911 or 1912)]; J. Pierpont Morgan, London and New York (1911/12–1913); Estate of J. Pierpont Morgan(1913–1917)

  • See also
    What
    Where
    When
    In the Museum
    Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History
    MetPublications
170003887

Close