SOLD Antique 19th century Russian Rostov Enameled Blessing Reliquary Cross

 
Rare antique, 19th century, large Imperial Russian Rostov enameled Blessing Reliquary Cross, (Крест напрестольный), of traditional form, of box-like construction (compartment for a reliquary) made of silver plated brass joined by the screws. The exterior is finely engraved in a traditional Russian pattern with a painted enamel crucified Christ on the center, and applied with four hand painted, enameled, oval medallions. On the top a medallion depicting God the Father, inscribed with Cyrillic monograms, on the left, medallion depicting The Virgin Mary, with Cyrillic writing, on the right, medallion of Saint John Apostle (damaged) and the Golgotha with the skull of Adam on the bottom. 
 
The reverse of the Cross is engraved with a traditional Russian ornament. 
 
MEASUREMENTS: 30 cm x 19 cm (14.96 inches x 9.84 inches). 
 
CONDITION: Showing the age and usage, the silver plating worn, some bends, enamel with cracks. 
 
Since the market is flooded by reproductions of antique Russian brass crosses, which for inexperienced collectors look the same, we would like to inform our clients that this is a 100% authentic, antique Russian cross, and is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity.