Description
The protective qualities ascribed to rock crystal, its perceived purity, and its status as a semiprecious stone made it attractive for a crucifix, the arms of which are embellished with sunbursts. The figure of Christ was modeled in gold and then partially enameled. On the reverse there is a relief of the Virgin and Child seated on a column with a black cross. Devotion to Our Lady of the Pillar derives from the tradition that she was transported by angels in 40 A. D. to advise St. James on his mission to Spain. Before returning to Palestine she asked that the marble pillar on which she stood should be enclosed in a church dedicated to her at Saragossa.
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