Large French antique cross pendant in 18 karat yellow gold. Large pendant in the form of a cross with “bird-tail” ends. Also known as “ecot” cross. On one side, Christ on the cross is surmounted by the word “INRI”, and on the reverse, a Virgin with Jesus as a Child are in the center of the jewel. Three drop-shaped pendants are held at the ends. The cross is decorated with bumps (or ecots) reminiscent of cut branches or rough wood. Limousin regional cross, circa 1880, France.
Eagle head hallmark (french state hallmark for 18 karat gold), goldsmith’s hallmark
Height (including bélière): 8.3 cm
Width: 4.3 cm
Condition: fine wear scratches
Weight : 11.89 gr
*The antique box and the chain are not sold with the jewel*
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Learn more : These type of crosses symbolize the tree of life. During periods of epidemics, the branches that protrude from the cross were likened to plague buboes. From then on, crosses with ecots were reputed to cure the disease, or at least protect against it.
