The Damascene Templar Cross Keychain by Marto of Toledo Spain is
decorated with 24K Gold damascene artwork on both sides. It features the
Vichiers' (Renaud de Vichiers was the 19th Grand Master of the Knights
Templar, from 1250 to 1256) seal: SIGILLUM MILITUM XPISTI. Although the
phrase is written using the Latin alphabet, the first two letters of
Christ's name are the Greek XP (Chi Rho) rather than the Latin CHR. The
XP symbol's origin lies in the early roots of Christianity, but came
into popular use after the Emperor Constantine had a vision of it and,
according to legend, converted to Christianity in the early fourth
century. From the time of Constantine, it became one of the most
significant symbols of Christianity, surpassed only by the cross itself.
Its early associations with the military made it the more apt of the
two symbols for the Templars. In fact the Chi Rho can also be seen on
the shields of the knights. Another useful collectible item essential
for all the fans of this famous order.
Features:
- 24K Gold Damascene artwork both sides