Cross-shaped Patch

The patch is embroidered on a stiff base with twisted silver metal thread and beige-colored silk thread, with accent gold sequin work. It takes the form of a rhombus with a four-armed equal-sided cross with shaped arms set into it.

The patch was made in the early 20th century and donated to the museum by Kylyna Ivanivna Tykhova of Kharkiv in 1989.

Note: the equal-armed cross became established in Christian tradition in Byzantium and the Orthodox Church. Its vertical line symbolizes the divine world, and its horizontal line the earthly. It is an ancient symbol also signifying the harmony of spirit and matter, balance, and the four directions of the world.

Patches on the vestments of clergy symbolize divine grace, the endowing of the priest with strength for his ministry, and signs of salvation and victory over death.