This is a spectacular antique 19th century Chinese Export Cross for the European aristocratic and upper class market (c.1860). Made of rosewood inlaid with finely engraved mother-of-pearl, with Jesuit order sacred religious symbols.
The symbols are: The centre with Eucharistic chalice , The Sacred heart of Jesus pierced by the lance wounds, (a symbol of Christ’s love of humanity), with the dove of peace above . The Arma Christi (the instruments of the Passion) below such as the ladder , and floral scrolling including peonies. Some minor losses commensurate with age. ( The heart above the chalice has been recently replaced with a circle of mother of pearl).
