Ethiopian cross

Ethiopian crosses are symbols of Christianity in Ethiopia and Eritrea. Their elaborate, stylized design is markedly distinct from the similar European Christian crosses.[1][2] Ethiopian crosses are almost always made from elaborate latticework, the intertwined lattice represents everlasting life.[3] No two crosses are exactly identical in style, the artisans who make them being allowed the freedom to exercise a measure of individual taste and creativity in their choice of shape and pattern. Crosses may be of the processional type with a socket at the base so they may be mounted on a staff and carried in church ceremonies or hand-held blessing crosses used by priests in benedictions.[4]

An Ethiopian Orthodox priest with traditional axumite crosses
Ethiopian, brass, latticework, blessing cross.
  • Brass, latticework processional cross ( socketed for staff ) from Amhara Region, mid 20th century.
  • Brass, latticework processional cross ( socketed for staff ) latticework reminiscent of Celtic knot-work, Amhara Region, mid 20th century.
  • Processional cross ( socketed for staff ) more open and figurative style ( less abstract than previous examples ).
  • Ethiopian Orthodox priest holding golden blessing cross, Church of St. George, Lalibela, Ethiopia.

See also

References
  1. Stanlislaw Chojnacki with Caroline Gossage, Ethiopian Crosses, (London: Skira, 2006). ISBN 88-7624-831-5 (book review)
  2. Mario di Salvo, Crosses of Ethiopia, 2006
  3. "The Ethiopian Cross". www.seiyaku.com. Retrieved 16 October 2016.
  4. "The Ethiopian Cross". R·Seitz: Talisman. Retrieved 16 October 2016.
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