This 19th-century Jerusalem pilgrimage crucifix combines an olive wood cross faced with mother-of-pearl and a bronze figure of Christ. The reverse has pierced mother-of-pearl inlays representing the 14 Stations of the Cross. It measures 14 × 6.5 cm.
Where we live is on the pilgrim route to the Holy Land that was guarded by the Knights Templar to protect the pilgrims as they made their way there and back.
The reason I mention that is because it must have been an early Christian from this region who made that pilgrimage and brought back this marvellous crucifix from Jerusalem. It is the only explanation as to why it should have been at an antique fair near my home.
This is a powerful piece. Not large at 14 x 6.5 centimetres. Not ornate as the cross itself and the bronze figure of Christ are simple in comparison to others I have seen. The pierced round pieces of mother of pearl inlaid into the reverse of the cross denoting the 14 stations of the cross are plain and unassuming. For me it is the thought of the hardship that someone endured to make the arduous journey. That they bought this simple 'souvenir' cross and almost certainly took it on the 14 stages that the original cross traversed.
A beautiful cross faced with mother of pearl and a gorgeous bronze Corpus Christi.
From that point of view it is priceless and I know that these crosses from Jerusalem and Bethlehem sell for large sums, but not here.
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