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Italian Coral crucifix with theca, Southern Italy, 18th century

Height x width x depth with theca: 37 x 33 x 7 cm. Crucifix height x width: 19 x 13 cm. Total gross weight: 1768 g.

Corpus Christi in Red Mediterranean coral (Corallium rubrum), set in a gilded wooden case with a frame decorated with leaf motifs.

The figure of the Saviour, depicted without a cross on a black and white fabric background, is modelled with anatomical care: the arms are open and semi-outstretched, the hands are half-open with the nails attached directly to the wooden base, given the absence of a cross. The torso presents a well-defined musculature, while the left leg is outstretched and the right leg is bent, with the feet crossed and also nailed to the bottom. The intimate parts are covered by a tight-fitting loincloth, draped horizontally.

In place of the cross, around the figure of Christ, there are ten small skulls also made of coral. The skull is a typical element of crucifixion iconography. Mount Golgotha, the place of executions, owes its name to the term meaning ‘skull’, probably because of its rounded, bare shape, reminiscent of a skull. It symbolises the passion of Christ, but also death in general.

On the background fabric, the following words are inscribed: "PIETAS MATH. SABATINO - CONGR. PARV. MORTUORUM".