Gem Cross
A gem cross ( Latin: Crux gemmata ) is a medieval cross that is decorated with precious stones , pearls or filigree . The crossing in the center is interpreted as the place of the head of Christ and is particularly valuable. The cross relic is usually located here . The shape of the cross can be different. Even rulers crowns and relics shrines were in the Middle Ages with gems decorated.
Gem crosses were mostly created as reliquaries and were used liturgically as lecture crosses . They represent the central Christian symbol, the cross of Christ , as a sign of victory. At the same time, they are instruments of sovereign representation and transfer the ancient Roman idea of triumph to the Christian symbol of salvation.
The oldest surviving gem crosses date from the 6th century. The majority originated in the Carolingian and Ottonian times .
The Latin name crux gemmata should not be confused with crux gammata ( gamma cross ), the Latin name for the swastika .
Well-known gems are:
- Ardennes cross , 2nd quarter of the 9th century, the only surviving Carolingian gem cross
- Otto Mathilden Cross , approx. 990
- Lothar Cross , about 980 (moot), regular or by 1000 at the coronations of kings of the Holy Roman Empire used
- Reichskreuz , 1024–1030, part of the imperial regalia
literature
- Theo Jülich : Gem crosses. In: Aachener Kunstblätter . Vol. 54/55, 1987, pp. 99-258.
- Christel Meier : Gemma Spiritualis. Method and use of gemstone allegories from early Christianity to the 18th century (= Münstersche Mittelalter-Schriften. 34). Volume 1. Fink, Munich 1977, ISBN 3-7705-1251-0 .
- Secular and spiritual treasury (= guide through the Kunsthistorisches Museum. 35). Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna 1987, ISBN 3-7017-0499-6 , pp. 155–159.
