Ivory Christ – Sculpture in the Round, France 17th Century

Ivory – Height: 40 cm (hands–feet)
Presented on a simple black metal stand (Height: 45 cm)

Carved in the round from an elephant tusk, this Crucified Christ follows with great finesse the natural curvature of the ivory. The arms, loincloth, and feet were crafted separately and then assembled with remarkable technical mastery. Four truncated nails, shaped like small pyramids, are inserted into the hands and feet, heightening the dramatic effect of the crucifixion.

The overall stylistic features — anatomical tension, expressive facial treatment, fluid drapery, and sense of movement — allow this work to be linked to Parisian production of the 17th century. It may be attributed to the circle of the Parisian sculptor and imagier Pierre Jaillot (1633–1681), active during the reign of Louis XIV. Several comparable ivory Christs, similar in both posture and quality of modelling, have been associated with his workshop in various expert assessments and public sales.

The piece demonstrates remarkable craftsmanship, both in its anatomical precision and in the spiritual sensitivity it conveys. The body of Christ, taut in the moment of sacrifice, reveals an in?depth understanding of anatomy: the muscles of the torso and limbs are rendered with palpable tension, and the tendons of the legs are clearly visible, accentuating the sense of endured suffering. The feet, bent downward and nailed separately, further reinforce this impression of contained agony.

The head, tilted toward the right shoulder, bears a poignant expression: the slightly open mouth and upward?turned eyes evoke the final breath, suspended between pain and surrender. The finely curled hair and beard fall in soft locks over the shoulders, framing a face marked by resignation and spirituality.
The loincloth, held by a double cord visible on the right side, is carved with particular refinement. The fluid folds and ample drapery, knotted to release a broad cascading panel, reflect a carefully considered aesthetic and a perfect command of the material.

Through the quality of its execution, the accuracy of its proportions, and the emotional intensity it conveys, this ivory Christ reflects a high cultural and artistic level, both on the part of the sculptor and the original patron.

Pierre Jaillot (1633–1681) belonged to a family of Parisian craftsmen active in the second half of the 17th century. Based in Paris, he is documented as a sculptor and imagier specializing in religious figures intended for churches, confraternities, and private patrons. His work is fully aligned with the aesthetic of Louis XIV’s reign, marked by a growing taste for precious materials such as ivory.
Jaillot is particularly renowned for his ivory Crucified Christs, characterized by:
– highly studied anatomy,
– dramatic bodily tension,
– expressive faces,
– dynamic drapery influenced by Italian Baroque.

Although few works are signed, several ivory sculptures have been attributed to him through stylistic comparison, notably in Parisian collections and at public auctions. His workshop contributed to the dissemination of a powerful and expressive style that became emblematic of 17th?century Parisian religious sculpture.

Excellent condition. Sold with a certificate of authenticity & CITES.