Russia, c. 1860s

The front of this large 14K gold cross pendant is applied with a finely modeled corpus of Jesus.

The abbreviation on the scroll on the upper arm of the cross reads JESUS OF NAZARETH THE KING OF THE JEWS.

The skull at the base of the cross represents Adam, the first man, who was buried in Golgotha (Skull Hill) where Jesus was later crucified.

The cross is marked with 56 zolotnik old Russian gold standard and maker’s mark.

The cross measures (without suspension ring) 52 x 32 mm (2 1/16 x 1 1/4 in.)

Sold without chain.