San Damiano Cross Value Guide

This mid-century San Damiano Cross is a faithful Italian-made replica of the 12th-century crucifix that famously spoke to St. Francis of Assisi. It is highly collectible for its intricate Italo-Byzantine iconography and its historical significance within the Franciscan tradition.

What Is San Damiano Cross Worth?

The typical price range for San Damiano Cross is $75 - $90 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The condition of the gold leaf and whether it retains its original luster or shows significant rubbing.
• The structural integrity of the wood base and the absence of chips in the gesso layers.
• The level of detail in the hand-painted faces of the surrounding saints and biblical figures.
• The size of the cross, as larger wall-mounted versions generally command the higher end of the $75-$90 range.

How to Identify San Damiano Cross?

• Look for a 'Made in Italy' stamp or sticker on the reverse side, typical of mid-century exports.
• Examine the surface for genuine gesso and gold leaf application rather than modern plastic or printed decals.
• Verify the presence of specific Passion figures and saints flanking the central figure of Christ, consistent with the Assisi original.
• Check for natural age-related crazing in the paint and gesso layers consistent with the 1950-1970 era.

History of San Damiano Cross

The original San Damiano Cross is a large medieval crucifix that hung in the church of San Damiano in Assisi, Italy, and is revered by Franciscans. It is said that in 1205, while praying before this cross, St. Francis of Assisi heard a voice commanding him to 'rebuild my church.' The cross is an example of an icon in the Italo-Byzantine style, and its unique iconography depicts not only Christ's crucifixion but also other figures from the Passion story and accompanying saints. Numerous replicas have been produced, making it a popular devotional item.