Early Russian Orthodox - Byzantine polychrome painted cross or crucifix. Painted on wood with a decorated silvered brass metal surround. Age: 16th - 18th century with the metal surround a bit later, 19th century).

The painting appears to have been executed over a thin layer of plaster on the wood surface. The surface patina is darkened and very old. There is writing on the lower right side of the cross piece (see photos). The metal surround is decorated with press-rolled dimensional repeating design of snakes and flowered vines. The bottom of the cross has a round remnant of brass or bronze that may indicate that this cross was once affixed to the top of a pole or handle for ceremonial use (see photos).

HEIGHT: 9 3/8" (24 cm)

WIDTH: 4 7/8" (12.5 cm)

PROVENANCE: California collector (purchased at Butterfield & Butterfield in the 1970s).

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Good condition with the following noted: Crack to the left arm of the cross. Painted surface with darkened patina. Metal surround with darkened, worn patina. Reverse showing the wood with wear and losses (please see photos for condition details).