Ethiopian Neck Crosses

Non-Fiction

Pages: 76 Ratings:

Book Format: Choose an option

Free standard delivery on UK orders over £35

When visiting Ethiopia, one quickly becomes aware of the profound influence of the Coptic Christian religion throughout the highlands. Evidence of this ancient faith is ubiquitous, from the numerous churches and festivals to the omnipresent crosses and cross imagery in various forms.

Crosses are tattooed on skin, embroidered on garments, carried by priests, and paraded in elaborate processional displays during Coptic religious festivals. However, the most prevalent are the small silver neck crosses worn by countless Ethiopians.

The Coptic religion in Ethiopia and the tradition of displaying and wearing crosses span centuries, with the variety and intricacy of cross designs surpassing those found in any other country.

The exceptional skill and intricate craftsmanship of Ethiopian silversmiths in handcrafting these silver neck crosses deserve recognition and wider appreciation.

This book explores the origins of silver neck crosses, their diverse forms, and the techniques used in their creation. It showcases over sixty exquisite examples of these captivating artifacts, allowing readers to fully appreciate the artistry and beauty of Ethiopian silversmithing.

Doug Coates was born and educated in England and, after university graduation, worked as an architect in England and, subsequently, in Ethiopia and Singapore as a university academic, and in New Zealand and Australia in architectural practice. He has travelled widely and has also worked as an IT Manager and Business Continuity Manager.

Doug has bachelor’s and master’s degrees in architecture; and other pursuits include jazz guitar, sailing and woodworking. Doug is married, has two sons, and is now retired in Sydney. In Ethiopia, Doug collected many small silver neck crosses which are the subject of this book.