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Hand Cross

unknown

  • Hand Cross 2
  • Hand Cross 3
Basic information
ID
С-II-743
Author
unknown
Name
Hand Cross
Date of creation
19th c.
Country
Ukraine
Technique
carving
Material
wood
Dimensions (height x width x depth, cm)
29.3 x 8.3 x 2.5
Information about author
Author
unknown
Country
Object description
The cross is seven-pointed, with an elongated central crosspiece, made using contour-notched flat carving. On the front of the cross is the crucifix, which occupies the central cross and most of the stem. The figure of the Saviour, sketched with precise contours and small details, is crouched and disproportionate. The folk master carved the crucifixion, imitating the Byzantine iconographic tradition, in which Christ is nailed to the cross with four nails. The saint's figure is depicted on a background formed by carved horizontal and vertical grooves with sharp ribbed protrusions that fill the entire surface of the central frame and the main part of the rod. A smooth line separates the upper and lower crosses from the main composition. The upper frame bears the traditional inscription "INRI", while the central part of the lower frame contains a schematic representation of Adam's skull. On the reverse side, in the central part of the cross, there is a carved figure of the Virgin Mary wearing a maphorion, with her hands folded in prayer. The schematised figures of Christ and Mary show a tendency towards geometric forms. A smooth, solid stripe runs along the outline of the handmade cross at the front and back, repeating the shape of the edges.
Legal regulation
Borys Voznytskyi Lviv National Art Gallery