Christ at the Column, Northern Italy or Netherlands, circa 1600

This fine ivory statuette is carved with great anatomical realism, showing with accuracy the strong muscles of Jesus, contracted by pain. Despite its small dimensions, the face features and the beard are rendered with great detail, as the half open mouth and eyes, that emphasize the suffering expression and the pathos of the scene.

The complex posture of the right leg is to be noted, placed behind the column in a totally forced and mannerist pose, an unconventional option taken by the artist that gives movement and originality to the composition. On the other hand, the reverse of the figure shows another interesting aspect, not devoid of enigma: Jesus hands are not tied, but instead his left hand is grabbing his right wrist, whose hand seems in a posture of pointing at something in a mysterious gesture whose meaning we don't know.

Height: 11 cm (13,5 cm including base)

Excelent condition.