Carved wooden group presenting the carrying of the cross

Origin : flanders or nothern france
Period : end of 15th century


Height : 47 cm
Width : 30 cm
Depth : 13 cm

Oakwood
Good state of preservation

This sculpted and polychrome group representing the Carrying of the Cross was likely not created as a standalone piece, but originally belonged to a larger sculptural ensemble that was later fragmented due to various misfortunes.

It depicts one of the episodes of Christ’s Passion, preceding the Crucifixion.
This bas-relief features three staggered figures arranged on two different planes. The first plane is formed by the beam of the cross, with Simon of Cyrene at the top left, and the bad thief at the bottom left. On the right stands Christ.

The gentle modeling of Jesus’ face conveys serenity. He is the Man of Sorrows who, abandoned by all, triumphs over Evil on Earth.

The overall quality of the work lies in the craftsmanship of the carving, the expressiveness of the faces, the distinctive clothing, and the still well-preserved polychromy.