63 - Processional cross, "yemesor meskel"

Processional cross, "yemesor meskel" Amhara / Agaw / Tigrinya. Ethiopia With base Silver. H 50 cm. W 41 cm. Provenance: - Josef Joller (1886–1972), Winterthur. - Alice Szentkiralyi-Joller (1932–2025), Winterthur. - In the family’s possession by inheritance. The cross (“mäsqäl”) occupies a central place in the Ethiopian Orthodox Church. As an expression of the Christian faith, it is also one of the most significant symbols of Ethiopian culture. The tradition of Ethiopian cross art dates back to the early days of Christianity in Ethiopia in the 4th century. Hand crosses are carried by priests and monks as a sign of their spiritual office and are used in religious ceremonies. They serve in particular to bless the faithful. Further reading: Chojnacki, Stanislaw & Carolyn Gossage (2006). Ethiopian Crosses: A Cultural History and Chronology. Milan: Skira. -------------------------------- Josef Joller (1886–1972) The Swiss merchant Josef Joller worked for the Swiss African Trading Company in the West African cocoa trade during the 1930s and 1940s. His professional activities took him to what was then the British Gold Coast—now Ghana—as well as to the neighboring Ivory Coast (Côte d’Ivoire), which was under French colonial administration at the time. At that time, cocoa was one of West Africa’s most important export commodities. European trading companies maintained an extensive network of trading posts and business relationships that connected the coastal cities with the production areas in the interior. As a Swiss merchant, Joller operated within this economic and cultural environment, where European commercial interests intersected with the diverse traditions of West African societies. His many years of activity in the region provide an interesting historical context for understanding the artworks that later came into his possession. It points to an era in which personal encounters, trade contacts, and travel could also shape the path of African art objects into European private collections. CHF 300 / 600 Weight in grams: 1714 Condition: Hammer Auctions places great importance on providing a careful and as precise as possible description of all lots offered in the catalog. Each lot is documented with multiple photographs intended to provide as comprehensive an impression of its condition as possible. This includes, in particular, visible signs of wear, irregularities, and age-related changes. We recommend that all interested parties and bidders carefully examine the photographs before placing a bid, as they form an essential part of the lot description. In addition, we recommend viewing the items in person before the auction, if possible. All condition descriptions are provided to the best of our knowledge and belief and are based on our professional assessment. They are provided for informational purposes only and do not claim to be exhaustive. In particular, there may be age- or use-related characteristics that are neither explicitly mentioned nor visible in the photographs. Hammer Auctions assumes no liability for unintentional errors or omissions in the condition descriptions to the extent permitted by law. However, we always strive to resolve any ambiguities or concerns in a transparent, fair, and straightforward manner. Should a lot deviate in material respects from its catalog description, Hammer Auctions offers a return option in accordance with the following provisions. Buyers may report such a deviation in writing within seven (7) calendar days of receiving the lot. If the complaint is justified, the lot may be returned by mutual agreement. The purchase price will be refunded in full upon receipt and inspection of the returned item. We are always happy to assist you personally with any questions, additional photographs, or further information.