Handmade Chi Rho Cross Figure

Product Description

Symbol of Good Fortune and Hope

The Chi Rho cross, one of the earliest Christian symbols, combines the first two Greek characters in Christ’s name -Chi and Rho. It is associated with good fortune and hope largely because of a story about the emperor Constantine: the night before the Battle of Milvian Bridge (in 312), Constantine dreamed of the symbol and heard a voice say, “In hoc signo vinces” (By this sign, you shall win). On waking, Constantine ordered his soldiers to put the cross on their shields. Constantine’s army then won the battle. From then on, the Chi Rho cross was thought to bring good fortune and protection to those who kept the symbol in their presence. This piece also bears the Greek letters alpha and omega, the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet, which are associated with Christ (“I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end”) and the infusion of goodness throughout all of reality. The letters often appear in ancient depictions of the Chi Rho cross. Finally, the storks and acorns atop the piece are both linked in many cultures with new beginnings and good fortune.

This original piece was hand carved by Hank Schlau, was cast by hand by him, and was hand painted by Karen Schlau.

Measures 11 x 7.5 x 1.75 inches, made of glazed cast stone suitable for the outdoors.