Home > Europe > United Kingdom > England > London > Towns > South Kensington
Reliquary Cross, 10th century, (1881). Creator: A A Bradbury
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Heritage Images
Reliquary Cross, 10th century, (1881). Creator: A A Bradbury
Reliquary Cross, 10th century, (1881). Etching of an Anglo Saxon crucifix made c900-1000 AD, possibly in Winchester or Germany. The cross is of cedar wood decorated with gold filigree work and enamels. The figure of Christ, carved in walrus ivory, is held in place by golden nails through the palms. The enamels may have been made by an English goldsmith familiar with German work. A dried human finger was found in the cavity beneath the figure of Christ, indicating that the cross was designed to hold relics (physical remains or the personal effects) of saints. From " The South Kensington Museum", a book of engraved illustrations, with descriptions, of the works of art in the collection of the Victoria & Albert Museum in London (formerly known as the South Kensington Museum). [Sampson Low, Marston, Searle and Rivington, London, 1881]
Heritage Images features heritage image collections
Media ID 19299753
© The Print Collector/Heritage Images
10th Century Anglo Saxon Bassetaille Boxes Bradbury Casket Cedarwood Chasse Cross Crosses Crucified Crucifix Crucifixion Devotion Devotional Enamel Enamelled Filigree Ivory Marston Museum Of Ornamental Art Our Saviour Relic Relics Reliquary Sampson Low Saxon Searle And Rivington South Kensington Museum Symbol Symbolic Tenth Century The South Kensington Museum V And A V And A Museum Victoria Albert Museum Victoria And Albert Museum Walrus Ivory Ottonian
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Animals
> Mammals
> Odobenidae
> Walrus
> Arts
> Literature
> Books
> Arts
> Literature
> Illustration
> Arts
> Literature
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Boroughs
> Kensington and Chelsea
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Museums
> V&A (Victoria & Albert)
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Towns
> Kensington
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Towns
> South Kensington
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> Winchester
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a remarkable artifact known as the Reliquary Cross, dating back to the 10th century. Created by A A Bradbury in 1881, this etching beautifully captures an Anglo Saxon crucifix believed to have been crafted between 900-1000 AD, possibly in Winchester or Germany. The cross itself is made of cedar wood adorned with intricate gold filigree work and vibrant enamels. At its center lies a figure of Christ delicately carved from walrus ivory, held securely by golden nails through his palms. What makes this relic even more intriguing is the discovery of a dried human finger within the cavity beneath Christ's figure, suggesting that it was designed to hold sacred relics associated with saints. The craftsmanship displayed on this reliquary cross reflects both English and German influences, indicating collaboration between skilled artisans from these regions during medieval times. This fusion of styles further enhances its historical significance. Originally featured in "The South Kensington Museum" a renowned collection now known as the Victoria & Albert Museum in London, this engraving offers us a glimpse into religious devotion and artistic expression during the Middle Ages. It serves as a powerful symbol of faith and reverence for Christianity while also highlighting the importance placed on relics within religious practices. A testament to centuries past, this relic continues to captivate viewers today with its exquisite beauty and rich historical context.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
