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Cross

14th century

Not on view

Medieval visitors to Jerusalem often remarked on the presence of Ethiopians at the Holy Sepulchre, where they maintain a chapel to this day. Openwork metal crosses are emblematic of Ethiopian ceremony. When used in procession, they are affixed to a wood pole and embellished with colorful cloth bands attached to the loops at the bottom. Each year, Ethiopian Christians, in both Jerusalem and their homeland, celebrate the Feast of the Cross, called Meskel, emphasizing their connection to the Holy Land.

Cross, Copper, Ethiopian — Due to rights restrictions, this image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

Title: Cross

Date: 14th century

Geography: Made in Ethiopia

Culture: Ethiopian

Medium: Copper

Dimensions: 7 7/8 × 4 3/8 in. (20 × 11.1 cm)

Classification: Metalwork-Copper alloy

Credit Line: Private Collection, UK

Accession Number: SL.4.2016.49.4

The Met

Medieval Art and The Cloisters at The Met

The Museum's collection of medieval and Byzantine art is among the most comprehensive in the world, encompassing the art of the Mediterranean and Europe from the fall of Rome to the beginning of the Renaissance.