
Bezel 2: The Cross, with the hammer and nails used for the act of crucifixion.
A hyssop plant grows beside the cross. According to the gospel of St John, a hyssop stalk was used to raise a sponge soaked in vinegar and gall to Christ’s lips – a reference to the Old Testament (Moses told his followers to use hyssop to smear the blood of the Paschal lamb around their doors for passover), reinforcing Christ’s sacrifical role.