In Christianity the symbol of the cross is a symbol of the Church. But in Ethiopia, the cross is more prevalent and visible than in any other culture.
The cross has been developed into a huge number of variations in Ethiopia and are a symbol often visible in public places and the home. They are markedly distinct from European Christian crosses in their design and appearance.
Crosses are inspired by local culture and are made from various materials such as wood, gold, silver, and also iron which is most common. Their design is intricate, and is said to represent the richness of the hearts of people in the Ethiopian Church.
Processional crosses
There are three types of Ethiopian cross. The first, the ‘processional crosses’ are carried by priests during religious ceremonies, and are mounted on a long staff. They are dressed with rich colourful fabrics and therefore they incorporate openings to secure the fabrics while being carried, and the crosses are large and elaborate.
In the 15th century a new type of processional cross was produced, which had representations on both sides, and in the 17th century, this was developed so their horizontal arms stretched upwards. The 17th century ‘Gondar’ style is now the standard for processional crosses.
While wooden hand and neck crosses are made from the same piece of wood, processional crosses are often made from two or three pieces due to the size.
Hand crosses
The processional cross’ smaller sibling is the hand cross. They have a narrow solid handle with a base plate or cube, and are simple in design yet varied.
These are made to be carried by priests and used for blessings or processions, and are also worn by clergy as a pendant.
The 15th century hand crosses date back to the 15th century and are often made of metal, while 17th century crosses specifically used brass. Since the 19th century onwards, they have largely been made of silver.
Neck crosses
The most numerous cross in Ethiopia is the neck cross. They are often small and worn round the neck. They therefore have a fastening attached to the top for a cord to pass through. The cord is made up of three strands, which are white, red and black to represent the Trinity.
The neck cross was commented on by Portuguese priest Francisco Alvares, who lived in the country from 1520 to 1526. He who wrote that he had seen laymen wearing small black neck crosses made of wood (the most used material for crosses in the ancient times) and explained that wood should not be used as it’s not durable. Neck crosses were later made with more refined metals, and which would better stand the test of time.
