[2] The Golden Cross was the first opera composed by young Oswald.

[1] In this work the composer prefers great sonorous masses and a dense orchestral texture.

[1] There are six main characters (2 sopranos, mezzo-soprano, tenor, bariton, bass) and a mixed chorus (SATB).

[1] The orchestra consists of piccolo, flutes, oboes, clarinets (in B♭), bassoons; trumpets (in F), trombone (in F), bass trombone (ophicleide); harp; timpani, gran cassa, piatti; strings.

[1] The opera is divided in Italian manner into separate musical numbers: recitativos, arias, duets, quartets, choruses and intermezzi.