Europe, probably France or Italy, ca. 19th century CE. A hand-carved ivory sculpture depicting Christ on the Cross that captures the drama and sorrow of this tragedy with immense skill. The anatomy was painstakingly delineated with elongated limbs and a severely emaciated torso. Careful attention was paid to rendering the ribcage, spine, and underlying skeletal structure throughout, as well as the strained muscles of His neck, abdomen, and chest. The loincloth is particularly impressive with its mesmerizing myriad of folds and billowing fabric. With the exception of the loincloth, Christ is depicted nude, with as much of his suffering body visible as is possible. Christ's head leans toward his right presenting a visage that heightens the emotional impact of the piece - with his eyes gazing upwards towards the heavens and a generally forlorn expression of suffering - his naturalistically rendered face framed by a meticulously rendered beard and wavy locks that cascade over his shoulders. A very poignant work of religious art. Size: 17.5" H (44.4 cm); 18.125" H (46 cm) on included custom stand.

The cross, which probably dates later than the Christ figure, is made of wood that has been painted black, creating a dramatic constrast with the white ivory. The Christ figure is attached to Cross with nails through the stigmata on his hands and feet.

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Provenance: East Coast collection, New York Gallery, New York City, New York, USA, acquired before 2010

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#136166

Arms carved separately and joined at the shoulders. Losses to tips of fingers on right hand. Fingers on left hand and all toes appear to be intact. Stable age/pressure fissures have developed in ivory as shown. Wooden cross which probably dates later has two perforations through upper arm.