Protective cross with ark

This cross has been crafted to form an image of the Tree of the Cross, a symbol of the Resurrection. At the centre of the design is the Golgotha Cross, surrounded by monograms representing the Saviour set in relief against arms shaped like lily petals. The Twelve Apostles (the followers and disciples of Christ) are represented by the twelve pearls at the ends of the arms. On the reverse of the cross is a small ark with an image of the Blessed Virgin with the Infant Christ.