Reliquary Cross with Christ Crucified and the Virgin and Child

11th century

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 303

This cross represents a more refined example of the reliquary crosses common during the middle Byzantine period. The image of the crucified Christ is similar to the one on the reverse of the cross reliquary lid in this case. He wears a colobium (sleeveless or short-sleeve tunic) with two clavi (bands), and his feet are supported by a large footrest (suppedaneum), while his death can be inferred from the slight angle of his head to the left. On the reverse is the Virgin. In front of her body is a medallion with the Christ Child, an image type that stresses Christ’s divinity.

Artwork Details

Title: Reliquary Cross with Christ Crucified and the Virgin and Child
Date: 11th century
Culture: Byzantine
Medium: Copper alloy, niello
Dimensions: Overall: 3 3/4 x 1 5/8 x 1/2 in. (9.5 x 4.1 x 1.2 cm)
Classification: Metalwork-Copper alloy
Credit Line: Rogers Fund, 1926
Object Number: 26.15
Curatorial Department: Medieval Art and The Cloisters

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