Wooden diptych cross, Ethiopian icon, spiritual heritage, sacred art of the Coptic Church, 19th century

4.500,00 €

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Africanism, First Cultures Art

19th century

37,5cm x 35cm x cm
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Fair

1

No

No

0kg
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Wood, Painted wood

Africa & Oceania

Brown, Green, Yellow

Brussels Belgium

This Ethiopian icon is a finely carved and painted wooden diptych cross, decorated inside and out.

The left panel shows a central figure, probably Christ, with disciples around him, against a yellow and green background, and inscriptions in Ge'ez, translating Christian messages.

The right flap shows a similar figure in a posture of blessing, surrounded by adoring figures, with inscriptions affirming Christ's divinity.

The exterior is engraved with complex geometric motifs.

Ethiopian icons, influenced by Coptic and Byzantine traditions since the 4th century, are made of wood or canvas, richly coloured with natural pigments, and depict biblical scenes and holy figures.

Used in churches and homes for personal veneration, they are "windows to the divine".

Traditionally created by monks and craftsmen trained in monasteries, they illustrate the fusion of local and foreign influences, playing a vital role in Ethiopian religious and cultural practice.





 


ad reference : PI000007936