This cross is an unusual biface cross, meaning that it is decorated on both sides.It is attributed to the Italian goldsmith Pietro Vanniniwho was active in the second half of the 15th century.
It was made by fixing sheets of gold to a wooden frame and it was then decorated with 37 rock crystal spheres.
The principal side first shows the Crucifixion. Christ is depicted between Mary, Mother of God, and St John. At Christ’s feet you can see Mary Magdalen and St Peter is at the top. The exceptional expressiveness of the faces heightens the dramatic tension in the scene.
In addition to the micro-sculptures, which were skilfully made using the repoussé technique, there are a number of enamel plaques. The plaques mostly depict the saints and prophets, except for the central plaque which shows a pelican.
According to medieval legend, pelicans sometimes sacrifice themselves to save their young, feeding them with their own blood. As such, the Pelican became a symbol of Christ’s sacrifice, through which his blood was spilled to save mankind.
In the centre of the back of the cross, God the Father is making a gesture of benediction. He is surrounded by a tetramorph, a symbolic representation of the four evangelists.
The dimpled orange-peel effect was created using a stamp, while the floral and plant motifs were engraved. The translucid enamels add colours ranging from blues though various shades of lilac to very bright oranges, turquoises and greens.
Inventory no : Cl. 9927
Height : 61 cm
Width : 54 cm
Periods : 3rd quarter - 4th quarter of the 15th century
Technique : goldsmith and enamelwork
