Hanging Lamp with Hand Holding a Cross

Hanging Lamp with Hand Holding a Cross

Hand Holding a Cross, Virgin, Christ, Saint Peter, Paul, Stephen

This hanging oil lamp chandelier was meant as an offering for a cure or remedy, possibly taken out only when a halt to sickness was needed. Originally it was not meant to be hung and was probably mounted on a stake or rod of some kind instead. When the hole was drilled to turn it into a hanging lamp, part of the Virgin’s face was destroyed. Along with the Virgin and child, other figures include Saints Peter, Paul, and Stephen. The two components of the branches connected to the hand and cross were not originally attached. Many alterations have been made over the years, for instance, one of the arms that holds the oil vessels is a modern replica.

Eastern Mediterranean

500–700 CE, restored in 20th century

Grace Luzcando

Metropolitan Museum of Art

https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/471990

Dimensions: 35 x 41.3 cm

Medium: Copper alloy

Greek

Lamp

1974.150