u/Friendly-Panda5246

Hello everyone,

I recently acquired this cross and would love to learn more about its history, origin, and purpose. After doing some research, I suspect it may be connected to the Ethiopian Christian tradition, but I would prefer not to make any assumptions and would appreciate the opinion of those with more knowledge.

Here are some details:
- Height: 37.5 cm (14.8 inches)
- Weight: 580 g (20.5 oz)
- Openwork metal construction with a blue-green patina
- Hand-engraved inscriptions (possibly in Ge’ez)
- Religious figures on both sides
- A small hinged compartment at the bottom

I would greatly appreciate any help with the following:

1. What type of cross is this?
2. Which Christian tradition does it belong to?
3. Approximately how old might it be?
4. What was the hinged compartment used for?
5. Can anyone identify or translate the inscriptions?
6. Are there any distinctive features that could help identify its origin or period?

I’ve attached detailed photographs of the front, back, inscriptions, and the hinged compartment.

Any information, references, or insights would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you very much for your time!

Hello,

I’m hoping someone can help translate these inscriptions. I believe they may be in Ge’ez, but I’m not certain.

The inscriptions are engraved on an old religious cross. I’ve attached close-up photos of each inscription.

If anyone can translate the text or identify names, prayers, biblical passages, or other religious references, I would greatly appreciate it.

Thank you very much!