Name/TitleReliquary crucifix, Victoria and Albert Museum, 7943-1862

About this objectThis cross was possibly first made in Germany as a pectoral cross, like others shown in this exhibition, but when it came to England the carved walrus ivory figure of Christ and the enamelled decoration on the front was added and it was adapted to hang in a church. The enamels are unique in Anglo-Saxon art and may have been made by an English goldsmith familiar with German work. A cavity behind the ivory figure of Jesus contained an index finger, arranged pointing downwards. A partly illegible inscription around the edge of the cross probably gives details of which saint this belonged to.

Date Madec. 900-1000

Place MadeEngland

Subject and Association KeywordsRelics

Subject and Association DescriptionLearn More: Backhouse 1984; Beckwith 1972; Campbell 1983; Mitchell 1925.

Medium and MaterialsEnamelled gold with walrus tusk ivory, cedar wood core.

TechniqueCarved

TechniqueEnamelled

Measurements18.5 x: 13.7 cx 2.6 cm, Weight: 0.22 kg.

Credit LineThe V&A Museum

Object numberEXH84: 7943-1862