Book Description

The most important symbols of Christianity, the cross and crucifix are as diverse in material, design, and detail as they are origin. Renowned art historian Oleg Zastrow’s unprecedented volume is a richly illustrated collection of these sacred treasures, many of which have never been published before. Remarkable for their outstanding interest and extreme rarity, the works are featured here in stunning colorplates with numerous close-up details. This exceptional and varied collection spans twelve centuries, and includes reliquary, altar, wall, table, pectoral, benedictional, ornamental, and devotional crosses. Made from silver, copper, bronze, iron, ivory, bone, marble, stone and wood, these expertly crafted artifacts are decorated by gilding or silvering, polychromy, enamelling, or gems and pearls. Gathered from around the globe, this catalogue of crosses and crucifixes is the product of impassioned and knowledgeable collecting, and a new and important resource on a topic that has long been neglected in the history of art.