Processional Cross, Silver Leaves On A Wooden Core, South America, Late 17th Century

Large Baroque processional cross, South America, probably Andes (Peru or Bolivia), late 17th century. Repoussé and engraved silver on a wooden core, Christ in the round, radiating decoration. Gross weight: 645 g. This important processional cross with a wooden core is entirely covered in silver leaf and decorated with a slender crucified Christ (10.5 x 13 cm) surrounded by a radiant glory with projecting beams. The ends of the arms feature Baroque ornaments with scrolls and mascarons, typical of Andean production during the colonial period. The upper plaque bears the inscription INRI within a scrolled cartouche. This religious metalwork is characteristic of South American colonial art, influenced by Spanish Iberian Baroque models. There is wear, minor deformation and traces of oxidation, and some minor damage to the joints.