KHATCHKAR (STONE CROSS)

KHATCHKAR (STONE CROSS)

The process of creating a khachkar begins with choosing a type of stone (mine). Usually, local materials were used, and priority was given to yellow-reddish tuff. The ultimate size of the stele is considered important. In the first step, the stele was rendered into certain proportions, such that the narrow sides and surfaces of the future monument were squared and polished. The reverse side, if it wasn't intended for inscription, was only roughly squared. In the beginning, the components of the future composition were sketched on the gound surface. The creation of complicated and proportional geometric carvings presumes precise measuring with a ruler and compass. Also, different stencils were used. In some cases, carving without sketching was also common. Carving was been done by means of a chisel, a die, sharp pens, and hammers. The main technique of carving was dual crossing, in which two corners of future shape were sketched by two parallel lines and were carved to the imaginary central line. The carvings were ground by fine sand. The small breaks and unsmooth parts that were formed during the carving process were later eliminated by plaster of clay or lime, and then were painted. Special care was required during the transportation and positioning of the stele, which is suggested by the ?technical? projections and holes (at the bottom). Examination of several khachkar in situ positions suggests that khachkars were put in place with the help of ropes. In order to erect the khachkar a tail-jut had been inserted into the specially created hole in the pedestal and was strengthened by small stones and mortar. In the process of connection of the tail to the pedestal or the cornice to the stele stone, wooden and iron wedges were also used.

Khachkar as a Saint

The naming of ...