15th century German crucifix

German crucifix of the 15th century.
Bronze.
Wooden base.
Measurements: 51 x 42 cm; 12 x 16 x 16 x 16 cm (base).

German crucifix of the 15th century of extraordinary formal originality, characterized by a cross conceived as a robust and golden trunk from which emerge numerous projections that evoke cut branches, distributed in a regular way along the vertical axis and the horizontal arms. This treatment gives the piece a marked sensation of dynamism and naturalism, distancing it from the traditional typology of the rectilinear cross and transforming it into a structure with a strong sculptural presence. In the center is the figure of the crucified Christ, with a stylized anatomy, a bowed head and a cloth of purity worked with deep folds, characteristic features of the late Gothic sensibility. The contrast between the delicacy of the figure and the vigorous structure of the cross, covered by the numerous truncated branches that run along its entire surface, reinforces the symbolic and devotional character of the work, while highlighting the technical refinement and expressive richness of Germanic sculpture of the late Middle Ages.

As we see in the piece on tender, the crucified Christs of 15th century Germany, especially during the late Gothic period, are characterized by a marked naturalism and intense emotional expressiveness. The figure is usually depicted with the body elongated and slender, the arms taut and raised, the torso slightly arched and the ribs and muscles carefully defined to accentuate the physical suffering. In this piece the head appears tilted to one side, with closed eyes and a serene but painful expression, while the crown of thorns and long hair fall in wavy locks over the shoulders. The perizoma or purity cloth is worked with abundant angular and deep folds, bringing movement and decorative richness to the composition.