Neo Etruscan crucifix in original box

Top notch quality!

There are crosses, and then there are crosses, but this one is one of the nicest of its kind that we have ever come across. Skilfully crafted with filigree and granules, it is a real joy for the eyes. The corpus is three-dimensionally worked out, and the aureole is also made using the finest filigree and granule technique. It comes in its original box with the text: "Luigi Freschi - Via Condotti - 55, 55a, 56, 57, Corso Umberto 1º 401 - ROMA".

In the second half of the 19th century, goldsmiths of that era sought and found their inspiration in excavations such as Pompeii and the Etruscan treasures. Especially in Italy, the so-called Neo-Etruscan style reached high levels, as we can see here with this beautifully refined cross.

This jewel features a filigree decoration, which is, in fact, thin golden wire twisted into refined motifs, in this case, elegant little balls. You can also notice the use of granulation on this piece. Granulation is a technique where the goldsmith uses very small balls (granules) of metal, which are not soldered to the piece but welded. Both techniques demand very high skills and precision from the maker.

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