Altar Cross

A laconic, simple plastic composition characterises the seven-pointed altar cross from the Yavoriv district. The main images are concentrated in the central part. Vertical relief figures are carved on the shaft: in the upper part, God the Father is in a tunic with a long chlamys fluttering above him. He is depicted on a cloud with a triangular halo, symbolising the Trinity. His right hand is raised, his left hand holds a sceptre, and a dove flies above his head, symbolising the Holy Spirit. Below, on the central core, is the crucifixion. Following the Byzantine tradition, Christ is nailed to the cross with four nails, each foot separately. His palms are closed, and his head is inclined towards his right shoulder. Under the Saviour's feet is Adam's skull. The master, who strove for anatomical accuracy in the reproduction of the human body, outlined the muscles of the arms and legs, reproduced the chest with clear, flat lines, and accurately reproduced the ribs and rounded stomach. Christ's facial features and the crown of thorns on his head are schematically depicted. A short knotted bandage on the thighs adds to the decorative effect. At the ends of the lower crossbar, on either side of the feet of the crucified Jesus, are almost bust figures of the Virgin Mary and John. The frame of the cross is framed by a rounded outline around the perimeter and a tourniquet pattern at the end.

Borys Voznytskyi Lviv National Art Gallery