19th century mother-of-pearl crucifix adorned with baroque pearls and mounted on optical calcite. This is a crucifix reliquary from Jerusalem (which is written on the back), created from mother-of-pearl and wood, and typically dates back to the 19th century.

These crucifixes were created by the artisans of the Holy Land (Jerusalem or Bethlehem) for pilgrims as devotional objects and significant memories of their spiritual journey. The structure is often made of wood, entirely covered with finely engraved and carved mother-of-pearl plates. On the arms of the cross are often depicted the four Evangelists or scenes of the Passion. In the lower part, there is a figure of the Madonna. At the top, there is the cartouche with the inscription INRI. Many of these specimens have small compartments on the back that contain the 14 stations of the Via Crucis or relics from holy places.

With the addition of the natural specimens, this piece creates a sacred and historical sculptural work.

Size: 8" high x 4.5" wide 1.5" deep.