Ethiopian Neck Crosses

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 ...