Indo-Portuguese Christ, XVII century.

Indo-Portuguese Christ, XVII century.
In carved ivory.
Presents some remains of polychrome.
Accompanied by CITES documentation.
Measurements: 50 x 40 cm.

Important sculpture of Christ belonging to the Indo-Portuguese production of the XVII century, made in finely carved ivory. These works were executed in the workshops established in Goa after the consolidation of the Portuguese dominion in India, where local craftsmen worked under European iconographic models, generating a singular artistic language fruit of the dialogue between East and West.

The figure presents an elegant anatomical elongation, with a delicate twisting of the legs and a soft modeling of the torso that emphasizes the spiritual dimension more than the physical drama. The face, with a restrained expression, shows almond-shaped eyes, a straight nose and a carefully worked beard, characteristic features of Indo-Portuguese sculpture. The treatment of the hair, arranged in wavy locks, as well as the richly folded and knotted perizome with carved rope in relief, show an execution of remarkable technical quality.

Remains of original polychromy are preserved, a common element in this type of devotional images, destined both for export to Europe and for use in missionary contexts within the Portuguese overseas territories. The combination of technical virtuosity, precious material and strong symbolic load turned these sculptures into highly appreciated objects since the 17th century.

It is accompanied by a CITES certificate that certifies its condition of antique ivory and authorizes its commercialization within the current legal framework.