A rare and highly important Italian micro mosaic cross pendant/brooch, crafted in 22kt yellow gold and produced in the Papal workshops of the Vatican during the mid-19th century. Marked with the Vatican stamp of the Papal tiara and the crossed keys of St. Peter, this jewel carries deep spiritual symbolism and exceptional craftsmanship.
The cross is intricately decorated with micro mosaic panels depicting religious motifs. The central roundel features the Agnus Dei (Lamb of God) with a flag, symbolising Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection, set against a blue background signifying divinity and heaven. Each arm of the cross is adorned with distinct imagery: the Chi-Rho monogram at the top, cherubs on the sides, and an anchor at the base, representing Christian hope and steadfast faith.
Dimensions
Length: 7 cm
Width: 5.7 cm
Weight: 27 g
Specifications
Origin: Papal Workshops, Vatican
Period: c.1850s–1860s
Material: 22kt yellow gold
Markings: Vatican hallmark (Papal tiara with keys of St. Peter)
Form: Convertible pendant/brooch, cross-shaped
Design & Features
Central motif: Agnus Dei (Lamb of God with flag), symbol of Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection
Top arm: Chi-Rho monogram (early Christogram)
Side arms: Cherub heads, symbolising divine guardianship
Lower arm: Anchor motif, representing Christian hope and faith
Technique: Micro mosaic with coloured glass tesserae, finely detailed religious imagery
Condition Report
Pre-owned; minor surface wear and small blemishes to some mosaic sections. Overall in good antique condition with all major elements intact. Please see photos for details.
A rare and highly important Italian micro mosaic cross pendant/brooch, crafted in 22kt yellow gold and produced in the Papal workshops of the Vatican during the mid-19th century. Marked with the Vatican stamp of the Papal tiara and the crossed keys of St. Peter, this jewel carries deep spiritual symbolism and exceptional craftsmanship.
The cross is intricately decorated with micro mosaic panels depicting religious motifs. The central roundel features the Agnus Dei (Lamb of God) with a flag, symbolising Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection, set against a blue background signifying divinity and heaven. Each arm of the cross is adorned with distinct imagery: the Chi-Rho monogram at the top, cherubs on the sides, and an anchor at the base, representing Christian hope and steadfast faith.
Dimensions
Length: 7 cm
Width: 5.7 cm
Weight: 27 g
Specifications
Origin: Papal Workshops, Vatican
Period: c.1850s–1860s
Material: 22kt yellow gold
Markings: Vatican hallmark (Papal tiara with keys of St. Peter)
Form: Convertible pendant/brooch, cross-shaped
Design & Features
Central motif: Agnus Dei (Lamb of God with flag), symbol of Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection
Top arm: Chi-Rho monogram (early Christogram)
Side arms: Cherub heads, symbolising divine guardianship
Lower arm: Anchor motif, representing Christian hope and faith
Technique: Micro mosaic with coloured glass tesserae, finely detailed religious imagery
Condition Report
Pre-owned; minor surface wear and small blemishes to some mosaic sections. Overall in good antique condition with all major elements intact. Please see photos for details.
