Ethiopia
The Walters' collection of Ethiopian icons, manuscripts, and processional crosses is one of the largest collections outside of Ethiopia. Historically, Ethiopia was a Christian kingdom with strong ties in both trade and religion to the cultures located around the Mediterranean. Ethiopia's Christian tradition dates back to the 4th century, when the ruler of the Aksumite kingdom converted to Christianity; by the 15th century, this African nation had developed a tradition of icon painting that rivaled that of the Orthodox empires.
The Walters' collection of Ethiopian icons, manuscripts, and processional crosses is one of the largest collections outside of Ethiopia. Historically, Ethiopia was a Christian kingdom with strong ties in both trade and religion to the cultures located around the Mediterranean. Ethiopia's Christian tradition dates back to the 4th century, when the ruler of the Aksumite kingdom converted to Christianity; by the 15th century, this African nation had developed a tradition of icon painting that rivaled that of the Orthodox empires.

The Nativity, The Presentation of Christ in the Temple, and the Adoration of the Magi
18th century
36.18

Double-sided Icon with Scenes from the Life of Christ, the Virgin Mary, and the Saints
18th century (Gondarine
)
36.17

Double-Sided Pendant with the Virgin and Child with Saint George and the Kwer'atä Reesu with Täklä Haymanot and donor
late 18th century (Gondarine)
36.5

Prayer Scroll with Archangel Michael and Cross
late 19th-early 20th century (?)
2001.32.7