Title

Processional Cross

Anonimous

Generic classification

Object

Date

Century

Cultural context / style

Dimensions

Material

Iconography / Theme

Provenance

Current location

Inventory Number in Current Collection

Object history

The profession of silversmithing was highly regulated due to the valuable materials involved. To prevent alterations in the value of the metals used, a system was established to control the weight and quality of gold and silver (Barrón, 2023). For this reason, from the 14th century onwards, hallmarks became increasingly common, ensuring the value of the piece. In addition to serving as a guarantee, these marks provided information about the location where the object was crafted and, in many cases, the name of its maker. In this regard, the city of Burgos played a significant role, as early records indicate the existence of the triple-marking system, which later spread throughout Castile (Oman, 1968; Barrón, 2023).

This system has made it possible to identify the present processional cross, as it bears three hallmarks. The first consists of the following elements: at the bottom, the inscription "BVRGOS"; in the centre, a single-tiered castle without a turret but with three battlements; and at the top, a crowned head with long hair. The second hallmark refers to the silversmith, in this case, the letters "OO/PA," which have been identified as belonging to Pedro de Salinas and Adán Díez, active in Burgos between 1519 and 1521 (Barrón, 1991). Finally, the third hallmark bears the letters referring to a silversmith named Fernando.

Little is known about the history of this piece. However, the three marks at the base of the cross and the seven located at its extremities indicate that it was crafted in Burgos, confirming its provenance from the province. Nonetheless, the circumstances surrounding its departure from Spain and its arrival in the United States remain unknown. The piece was purchased by the Ailsa Mellon Bruce Foundation in 2015 and donated that same year to the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, where it remains today.

Description

The cross holds an essential role in liturgical rites, as it directly symbolises the core of Christian doctrine: the redemptive meaning of Christ’s sacrifice. This symbol was indispensable in all liturgical ceremonies, placed at the foot of the altar and at various points within the temple. Processional crosses were intended to accompany ritual movements, carried aloft and following the thurifer. This piece is made of silver-gilt, with smooth cylindrical arms and oblique bases at their junctions. It features a figure of Christ crucified, with arms and legs outstretched and bearing a scroll inscribed with "INRI".

Locations

• Early XVI^th c. - Early XX^th c.

  province

  Possible origin in the province of Burgos, Burgos (Spain)

• ca. 2000 - ca. 2015

  private collection

  Ailsa Mellon Bruce, Pittsburgh (United States) *

• ca. 2015 - present

  museum

  Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Richmond (United States)