The Matara cross originated in the 16th cantury in the Salado River region of Argentina. Jesuit missionaries ordered it to be carved in mistol, an indigenous wood,  to serve as a means to teach illiterate converts the Passion of Christ through symbols. It measures 47 centimeters high, the tapered lower vertical beam was designed to be placed in a wooden base.
   In 1971, the Cross of Matará was rediscovered near the Salado River.  A tradition existed that the Cross sustained the indigenous groups who lived there in Matará and that they considered the Cross to have supernatural powers. In honor of the Cross, the Argentine Episcopal Conference choose it to adorn the cover of the Roman Missal in 1982. A detailed description accompanies the cross to explain the various symbols and their meanings.
Dimensions: 2  1/4'" x  3/4"