Antique Ethiopian Coptic Cross Brass Earrings, Lalibela, c. 1900’s, Gold Plated Ear Wires, 9.5 Grams

Much of the Ethiopian brass work on the market is now contemporary, but these pectoral crosses are very  very old and have clear wear and are superbly thin, yet sturdy at 1 mm.

The borders and edges have worn smooth as also the the original chased designs. I have attached a photo of the bales - as both bales have at one stage worn through and been mended. This was from constant rubbing from a chain or cotton cord over time.

The earrings have new gold plated ear wires and have recently been polished.  The weight just 9.4 grams which makes these nice and light for wearing.

The Lalibela crosses are distinctive intricate interwoven and crossed designs worn primarily by African Christians.

Lalibela is a town in northern Ethiopia famous for monolithic rock-cut churches. Lalibela is one of Ethiopia's holiest cities.

These Coptic Crosses are full of symbols:
The centre cross has incised indentations representing the five wounds of Christ, comprising one through each hand or wrist, one through each foot, and one to the chest.
The three final crosses on the lower arms refer to the Trinity.

Height: 5cm (2 1/2") - without wires
Width: 4 cm (1 5/8")
Weight: 9.4 Grams
Material: Brass with gold plated ear wires