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Reliquary cross
Byzantine
Byzantine Period
10th to 11th century
Findspot: Egypt, Nag el-Deir
Medium/Technique
Brass
Dimensions
height x width x diameter: 8.7 x 5.7 x 5 cm (3 7/16 x 2 1/4 x 1 15/16 in.)
Credit Line
Source unidentified
Accession Number1987.286
ClassificationsReligious and cult objects
DescriptionThis is the back half of a reliquary cross, known in Greek as enklopion. Many such examples were used to carry relics of bones and pebbles. In the center of the cross stands the Virgin Orans wearing a tunic and maphorion; at the ends of the cross are roundels with busts of the Evangelists holding closed books with covers decorated with punched designs. Inscribed Greek initial letters next to the roundels identify each of the Evangelists and an inscription in Greek also identifies the Virgin. This iconography is typical for the reverse side of these crosses.
The cross is very worn. This is evidence of devotional practices in which the wearer would rub and kiss the cross.
The cross is very worn. This is evidence of devotional practices in which the wearer would rub and kiss the cross.
Provenance1987, accessioned by the MFA. (Accession Date: May 27, 1987)