Namban crucifix. Kirishitan art. Edo, early 19th century

Namban crucifix. Kirishitan art (Japanese Christian art). Japan, Edo period, early 19th century.
Bronze and copper alloy with cloisonné decoration (shippo-yaki).
Measurements: 27 x 17 cm.

Interesting crucifix belonging to the field of Namban and Kirishitan art, testimony of the survival of Christianity in Japan after its official prohibition during the Edo period.

The cross has a metal structure decorated with cloisonné enamel (shippo), a technique that reached great development in Japan and is used here with remarkable refinement. The three-lobed arms contain symbols of the Passion: at the top, a chalice and Eucharistic grapes; at the sides, the instruments of martyrdom; and at the bottom, the Marian monogram. In the center, Christ crucified in a rounded form, cast in bronze and copper alloy, with modeling of western tradition adapted to Japanese taste.

The use of cloisonné on Christian objects is characteristic of productions destined both for kirishitan communities and for foreign trade, especially in the context of Nagasaki, the only port open to contact with the West during the sakoku.

A work of remarkable historical and symbolic interest, representative of the dialogue between European Christian iconography and Japanese ornamental techniques.