The Silver Cross of Nerses

The Cross of Nerses is a silver cross of the early Christian period. Some of the earliest Armenian inscriptions are engraved along its arms. At the centre, a red garnet is set in fine gold filigree. The cross has been in private collections since 1956. Analysis of its design and manufacture, together with the linguistic, palaeographic and historical study of its inscription, confirms its authenticity.

In an article published at Harvard, Timothy Greenwood dates the cross to the early Byzantine period, the 5th or 6th century. In his view, its manufacture and design link it closely to the early Byzantine silver crosses made within the Empire.

The inscription reads in translation: “I, Nerses Koms (count), sinful and unworthy, made this holy redeeming cross for [the church of] Saint Stepanos in the village of Pyarshakert, for the forgiveness of my sins, for the repose of the souls of our fathers and ancestors, and for the prosperity and peace of the Armenian houses, of our villages and of the Khorkhoruni family.”