Returned to lender The Met accepts temporary loans of art both for short-term exhibitions and for long-term display in its galleries.
Cross with Santa Maria Maggiore Icon
Not on view
Processional crosses were produced in a rich variety of shapes, sizes, and materials and feature an extensive range of geometric patterns that carried theological and symbolic meanings. The elaborate interlace patterns of these liturgical objects may have been inspired by similar patterns that appear in contemporary illuminated Ethiopic manuscripts. A majority of crosses made during this period feature a representation of the Virgin and Child on one side. Other subjects include God in Majesty, as we see on this example.
Due to rights restrictions, this image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.
This artwork is meant to be viewed from right to left. Scroll left to view more.