Antique French gold filigree crucifix pendant

Cross pendant Boulonnaise", figuration of the Christ on gold Latin cross with inscription INRI, openwork, filigree, four shell motifs on the sides of the cross and a "pendeloque" or little gold ball articulated to the main pattern. The cross depicted is called a Saint André cross. The letters "INRI" are the initials for the Latin title that Pontius Pilate had written over the head of Jesus Christ on the cross. Latin was the official language of the Roman Empire. The words were "Iesus Nazarenvs Rex Ivdaeorvm.". The English translation is "Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews."

This type of cross was part of the adornment of wealthy fishermen along the coast between Boulogne and Dunkirk in France. They are typical by their shells motifs that evokes the pilgrimage to Saint Jacques de Compostelle and the filigree work is perhaps the mark of a distant Spanish origin. The County of Flanders became Spanish between the 15th and 17th centuries. The curly lines might also evoke twisted ropes wound on the bridge or boats and the shell as product from fishing. The "pendeloque", floats used by fishermen.

These crosses called "Boulonnaise" were also named "croix du pardon" (cross of forgiveness) or "croix flamande" (flamish cross) because their origin would be from Antwerp. This type of cross was worn on a long chain called "sorcière" or witch, several times around the neck and closed with a large closure.

Some fine examples are visible in Paris at the National Museum

Object Group : pendants
Country of Origin : France
Style : Victorian
Period : 1890
Source of Inspiration : Christianity
Theme : Latin cross - There exist several types of crosses, and the one this pendant represents is a Latin cross on which, according to Augustinus, Christ was crucified.
Material : 18K yellow gold
Technique : Filigree. This is in fact thin gold wire twisted into refined motifs. This technique demands very high skills and precision from the maker.
Extra Info: The letters "INRI" are the initials for the Latin title that Pontius Pilate had written over the head of Jesus Christ on the cross. Latin was the official language of the Roman Empire. The words were "Iesus Nazarenvs Rex Ivdaeorvm.". The English translation is "Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews."
Weight : 6.80 gram (4.37 dwt)
Halmarks : French origin since 1838 - eagle's head - We are sure of the origin of this jewel because of the control mark representing an eagle’s head (that was in use in France from about 1838).
Condition : Excellent condition - (click here for our condition scale)
Measurements : 5.50 cm (2.17 inch) by 3.80 cm (1.50 inch)<


When refering to this piece : Mention the following number: 01114-1146 or click here.


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