The Rus' Cross Enkolpion

Cast bronze cross enkolpion. Kyivan Rus' (Kyiv). 12th to early 13th c.

One of the most important items in our religious art collection is this pectoral cross that was made in Kyiv prior to the sacking of the city by the Mongols in 1240. It was likely buried in the ruins of the city, and was discovered by archeologists in the 1970s. It was given as a gift to Patr. Mstyslav, who donated it to the museum.

In 1997, this cross was loaned for 4 months to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City so that it could be displayed as part of their special exhibit "The Glory of Byzantium".