Six Russian Imperial-Era Old Believers’ Pendant Crosses, 19th Century

A group of rare gilded Russian Old Believers’ pendant crosses from the era of the Romanovs. Each with stamped religious motifs including a Russian Orthodox cross on the front and an inscription in the back (illegible). Traditionally the inscription reads: “Let God arise and smite his foes and let hatred flee from His countenance.” Each cross is gilded in rose gold on metal.

Moscow, late 19th century

15.4 grams (6)

Average size: 1 ½ x ¾ in. (3.8 x 1.9 cm) (h x w)

The Old Believers were religious traditionalists who split from the Russian Orthodox Church in the 1650’s over liturgical reforms introduced by Patriarch Nikon. Considered schismatics by the ecclesiastical establishment, they were often respected for their piety and their industry by other Russians. Many prominent 19th century merchants in Moscow were Old Believers.