Ethiopian Steel Hand Cross (Yaegg Masqal)

This fine cross has been cut from several pieces of steel. It was made to be held in the hand and is known as a yaegg masqal.

The cross is a pattee cross enclosed within a rhombus topped with a quatrefoil finial, with pierced sides, and unusual bird-like heads radiating from the lower sections. The cross is further engraved with line-work.

The handle is squarish and the rectangular base terminates with a quatrefoil. One side of the base is engraved with an angel with a drawn sword, probably either Michael or Gabriel. The other side is plain.

The cross has a good patina.