Exceptional Huamanga relief of the Descent of Christ. Ayacucho, 17th centurury

An exceptional Huamanga stone relief depicting the Descent of Christ from the cross.

Ayacucho, Peru, late 17th century.

The relief measures 23 x 17 x 6cm.

The relief has been later framed and measures 31 x 25cm.

The relief is deeply carved in relief with an image of the dead body of Christ carried by an angel and supported by the Virgin and Mary Magdalene. The relief retains extensive remnants of its original polychrome. The surface shows minor damages and wear but is without restoration and remains in original condition. The sculptural treatment is by the hand of a great Master, as is demonstrated by the many small and intricate folds that make up Mary Magdalene’s mantle and the expressions of pain. It is also worth noting the variety of colourful bird feathers in the outstretched wings of the angel which relates to the exquisite images and traditional ceremonial clothes created from highly prized exotic feathers during this period.

Huamanga stone is a type of white alabaster with delicate transparencies which takes its name from its place of origin, Huamanga, in the Ayacucho region, where production of sculptures and reliefs flourished, usually dedicated to the Virgin Mary, Christ and saints. Similar examples can be found in the Pedro de Osma Museum in Lima.