Hand cross

Ethiopian Orthodox · 15th century

The cross is perhaps the most pervasive symbolic artifact in Ethiopia. Priests use hand crosses bestow blessings on and receive salutations from the faithful. Made of iron, copper alloy or wood, hand crosses vary considerably. The square at the base of the shaft symbolizes the Ark of the Covenant, which is believed to have come to Ethiopia from Jerusalem, and the tomb of Adam, which is believed to have been at the foot of Christ's cross.