Central America, Spanish Colonial, ca. 19th century CE. A fascinating ensemble of wooden sculptures: 3 figures of Jesus and a cross atop a square plinth. All 3 saviors present emaciated bodies and wear loin cloths as shaggy beards and long coiffures frame their downcast faces. They are each enveloped in a different pigment: 1 white, 1 black, and 1 burnished woodgrain. Alternatively, the cross is painted a black with yellow bands at each end. A banner inscribed "INRI" - which stands for "King of the Jews" - sits at the top of the crucifix while 2 tiers lie below. The first tier is cuboid and painted with the torsos of 1 male and 1 female figure, both gazing forwards, on the front while the right side is inscribed "Maria" and the left bears indecipherable script beginning with a "P" - perhaps for the apostle Pedro or Pablo. Size of largest: 4.6" W x 10" H (11.7 cm x 25.4 cm)

The figures appear as though they are burning in flames with streaks of red paint rising in front of them, indicating that this carving likely represents “La Cruz de las Animas” or “The Cross of Souls."

Provenance: ex-Jorge Aguilera estate, New Jersey, USA

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#168351

Loss of both arms on all 3 Jesus figures. Cross repaired from at least 2 pieces. All have nicks, chips, abrasions, and loss of detail. Otherwise, nice remaining pigments.