Antique Victorian late 19th or early 20th century hand turned oak monks cross? Or crucifixion We believe this was originally made and used in a monestery by monks to pray by their bedside would have had a probably bronze figure of christ ( now unfortunately missing) an incredibly religious item ( could be used as a jewelry item see pictures illustration only)
Some age related wear 
26 cm tall 
6 cm round at base 
The cross, a symbol of crucifixion in Roman times, became Christianity's central emblem after Emperor Constantine's conversion in the 4th century, evolving from a grim execution device into a sign of Christ's victory, sacrifice, and resurrection, initially depicted as triumphant and later as suffering, incorporating earlier pagan cross symbols but redefined by its new religious meaning. 
Pre-Christian Origins
Ancient Symbols: Cross shapes (like the 'T' for Tammuz, or Greek/St. Andrew's crosses) appeared in ancient Egypt, Babylon, and Syria as pagan symbols for gods, life, and directions long before Christianity. 
Crucifixion Method: The cross (or 'tree') was a brutal execution method used by Romans, associated with shame and death. 
Early Christianity (1st-3rd Centuries)
Minor Symbol: The cross was a minor symbol, used discreetly, partly due to its brutal association. 
"Wood of Life": Early Christians called it the "victorious cross" or "wood of life," focusing on resurrection and new life, not just suffering. 
Mockery: Early Christians were mocked as "adorers of the gibbet" (crucis religiosi), showing awareness of the symbol. 
Constantine & Christianization (4th Century) 
Constantine's Vision: Emperor Constantine's vision (c. 312 AD) led him to adopt a cross-like symbol (Chi-Rho) for military victory, legalizing Christianity. 
Imperial Adoption: The cross became widespread under imperial support, appearing on churches. 
St. Helena: In the 4th century, Constantine's mother, Saint Helena, reportedly "discovered" the True Cross, increasing its veneration. 
Medieval & Later Developments
Gemmed Cross (Crux Gemmata): Early medieval crosses were often gold, jeweled, and depicted Christ triumphant. 
Realistic Crucifixion: From the 9th century, artists began showing Christ's realistic suffering (the Crucifixion). 
Reformation: Martin Luther affirmed the cross as central ("The cross alone is our theology"), while some Calvinists rejected its use in worship. 
Modern Significance
Symbol of Salvation: Today, the cross represents Christ's sacrifice, redemption, and the core of Christian faith, with various shapes (Latin, Greek, Celtic) holding specific meanings.