MacDougall Auctions 8 June 2009
8 June 2009
122. A CARVED WOOD ALTAR CROSS SHOWING SELECTED SCENES FROM THE LIFE OF CHRIST ENCASED IN A GILT, GEM-STUDDED SETTING
GREEK (MOUNT ATHOS), XVIII CENTURY
Height 19.7 cm.
5,000-7,000 pounds
The cross is made of boxwood, each side arranged in six compartments covered by a fine layer of mica. It is placed in a cruciform, gilt case on a foot of hemispherical support. The terminals, angles and sides of the cross have extensions of blossoming, vegetal forms. The setting is meticulously decorated with filigree and granulation, and encrusted with river pearls and gems in red and green.
Notes on symbols:
* Indicates 5% Import Duty Charge applies.
Ω Indicates 20% Import Duty Charge applies.
§ Indicates Artist's Resale Right applies.
† Indicates Standard VAT scheme applies, and the rate of 20% VAT will be charged on both hammer price and premium.