Name/Title
Metal Hand CrossEntry/Object ID
2001.6.1Description
Metal Hand Cross from Lallibela, Ethiopia.
Carved, iron and nickel plated.Made/Created
Time Period
20th CenturyNotes
Lallibela, Ethiopia.Dimensions
Dimension Description
Cross' DimensionHeight
8-1/4 inWidth
3-1/4 inInterpretative Labels
Label Type
Object LabelLabel
The radiant form and narrative imagery of this complex piece demonstrate the thoughtful creativity Ethiopian artists use in designing a cross. Handles incorporating a human figure are often said to represent Adam or Christ. In the central roundel, an etched image of the Mother and Child – flanked by small angels to the sides and below and a figure with arms raised in praise above – references the incarnation of Christ. Smaller crosses extend outward from the main cross. On the tabot at the base of the staff is the face of an archangel, which corresponds to paintings of archangels that guard the inner sanctuary of a church where the tabot is kept.