Italian silver and coral crucifix, Southern Italy, 18th-19th century

Height x width: 22 x 17 cm. Total gross weight: 350 g.

Corpus Christi in red Mediterranean coral (Corallum Rubrum), mounted on a silver cross; with additional applications in Mediterranean coral at the ends of the cross depicting scenes from the life of Christ, from the Nativity to the Crucifixion itself.
The body of Christ is anatomically studied, although the musculature and bones appear stylized: the arms are open and extended laterally with nailed hands; the head is centrally positioned but slightly tilted to the left; the legs are stretched out parallel, and the feet are nailed side by side to the cross. The loincloth fully covers the pelvis down to the knees.