This sterling silver cross is a replica of a genuine CAMARGUE CROSS. It measures 25x46mm and hangs on an Italian 2mm rolo sterling silver chain which measures 18 inches.
CAMARGUE CROSS is an emblem formed with a Latin cross whose upper ends represent a three-pronged fork ( a working tool used by "gardians" (cowboys) ) and whose lower end is a sea anchor topped by a heart. It stands for the three cardinal virtues:
The cross for faith,
The anchor for hope,
The heart for charity.
The area of the CAMARGUE in the South of France, where the Rhône River meets the Mediterranean Sea, is where the CAMARGUE CROSS originated.
The CAMARGUE CROSS was created by the painter and sculptor Hermann Paul in 1924 at Marquis of Baroncelli's request. The first one, forged in 1930 and was put in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, near the Maure bridge not far from the Simbeu farmhouse where the Marquis of Baroncelli used to live. Today, it is still there.
Every May 25th, the Feast of the Three Marys, Les Gardians carry the relics of Saint Mary Jacobe and Saint Mary Salome (Mothers of the Apostles James & John) on horseback to the Mediterranean Sea along with their CAMARGUE CROSS.
CAMARGUE CROSS ORIGIN:
http://www.magdalenepublishing.org/blog/camargue-cross-origin/
