Cross of consecration of Nikolaos Kertzos, year 1798

Ornate cross of consecration (height 23,6 cm), work of Nikolaos Kertzos from Kalarrytes, dating from 1798. The exceptionally well-made cross stands out not so much for its carved wood core as for its metal cladding. The binding is made with a wire technique and displays rich floral and spiral motifs. On the outer sides of the antennae of the cross are carved tulips and anthelia, rendered with wire and painted enamel. The decoration is complemented by scattered pearls and colored stones, placed in deep pockets. The base of the cross gives the feeling of a third dimension, as the floral ornaments have been made on two or three different levels.