3-021-099 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Cross used in processions, 1868. 'The Engraving of a metal cross is taken from one which was presented to Mr. Clements Markham, the geographer accompanying the [British] Abyssinian expedition, by the priest of the church at Chaffa. The cross, which is of a design denoting considerable antiquity and Abyssinian manufacture, is of copper, and is made so as to fit into a pole for use by the priest, and in processions. It consists of four concentric circles, the inner one containing a Maltese cross, and the others having elaborately-worked patterns of alternate zigzags and Maltese crosses. The outer periphery is ornamented with large crosses, resting on scrolls at the top and two sides, with smaller crosses in the intervals. The socket for receiving the pole is supported on each side by ornamental curved scrolls. The whole design is remarkably graceful and artistic. The priest of Chaffa also presented Mr. Markham with a small book written in manuscript, in the ancient Geez character, on parchment, the subject of which was the life and miracles of an Abyssinian saint named Gebra Manfas Kedoos ("Servant of the Holy Ghost")'. From "Illustrated London News", 1868.