Cross
Limoges , late 12th century
Description
Cross
The cross was purchased by Gian Giacomo Poldi Pezzoli and, at the time of his death, it was kept in one of the showcases in his study. It is one of the finest remaining examples of sacred art produced in Limoges in the 12th century. Of the original decoration, which adorned both sides, only five plates of the main side remain. These are decorated with polychrome enamels on gold leaf, engraved with a motif of volutes and leaves. The enamel decoration, executed with the champlevé technique, features Christ crucified in the center; above, an angel; below, Adam emerging from the tomb with arms outstretched toward the Savior and Saint Peter with the key; on the sides, the Virgin and Saint John the Evangelist. This iconography is a theological compendium, evoking original sin (Adam), the Incarnation (the Virgin), the Passion of Christ, and the establishment of the Church (Saint Peter).
Data Sheet
Author
Limoges
Date
late 12th century
Material and technique
gilt copper, enamels
Measures
60 cm x 36.5 cm
Acquisition
Gian Giacomo Poldi Pezzoli bequest, 1879
Inventory number
1444
location
Jewellery Room
The Jewellery Room is set up where Gian Giacomo Poldi Pezzoli’s private cabinet once stood, furnished with the newest and most luxurious equipment of the time and completely rebuilt after the war. The showcases house the Museum’s collection of goldsmithing, over two hundred pieces grouped into four sections: ancient enamels, sacred goldsmithing, collectibles, and jewelry, including a group of Etruscan pieces from grave goods.
collection
Jewellery
Gathered in the Jewellery Room, there are sacred items, enamels, jewels, objects de vertu that create a collection heterogeneous and the same time unique for its rarity and high quality. Among the highlights, Medieval Limoges enamels, works by Renaissance Lombard goldsmiths, 16th century jewels, 19th century parures by Fortunato Pio Castellani.