|
For over 1600 years Christian Ethiopians have worn neck crosses as a proud confession of their faith. Ahamara women of Lalibela wear crosses typical of that region, hanging on blue cotton cord called mateb which is received at baptism.
Lalibela the capital of Ethiopia in the 10 th century was named after king lalibela who was responsible for building the 13 rock-hewn churches for which the town is now famous.1.
Ethiopian crosses are usually named after towns or provinces of the highlands, are either cast by the lost wax method or cut directly from Maria Theresa dollar. The oldest are of simple Greek or Latin design. Those with flared arms show the influence of Coptic crosses from upper and Lower Egypt; others, probably under Celtic influence, developed trefoils or decorative projections. With the ready supply of silver in the nineteenth century, the crosses became more elaborate: complicated openwork designs, or patterns of endless interwoven lines symbolizing eternity became popular. Additional hinges and crowns show the influence of nineteenth century European medals. The Star of David is worn by the Falasha, a small group of Jewish settlers living near Gonder.2..
Ref ,1,2. Africa Adorned, Author, Angela Fisher, 1996 Harvill Press London
The picture is of a large Ethiopian ceremonial cross from the Timbuktu collection. 28cm high |
