Christ In Ivory - Sculpture In The Round. France, 17th Century

Presented on a sober black metal stand (Height: 45 cm)

Sculpted in the round from an elephant's tusk, this Christ on the cross finely hugs the natural curvature of the ivory. The arms, loincloth and feet were made separately, then assembled with great technical skill. Four truncated nails, carved in the shape of small pyramids, are inserted into the hands and feet, reinforcing the dramatic effect of the crucifixion.

The stylistic features as a whole - anatomical tension, facial expressiveness, fluid drapery and a sense of movement - bring this work closer to Parisian production of the XVIIᵉcentury. It can be attributed to the circle of the Parisian image-maker Pierre Jaillot (1633-1681), active during the reign of Louis XIV. Several ivory Christs comparable in both posture and quality of modeling have been associated with his workshop in various expert appraisals and public sales.

The work testifies to remarkable craftsmanship, both in its anatomical precision and in the spiritual sensitivity that emanates from it. The body of Christ, tense in the moment of sacrifice, reveals a thorough knowledge of anatomy: the muscles of the torso and limbs are rendered with palpable tension, the tendons of the legs clearly visible, accentuating the idea of the torment endured. The feet, bent downwards and nailed separately, prolong this impression of contained suffering.

The head, tilted over the right shoulder, presents a poignant expression: the half-open mouth and eyes raised to heaven evoke the last breath, suspended between pain and abandonment. The finely curled hair and beard fall in soft locks over the shoulders, framing a face imbued with resignation and spirituality.

The loincloth, held in place by a double rope visible on the right side, is sculpted with particular refinement. The flowing folds and ample, knotted drape from which a wide, drooping flap escapes, testify to meticulous aesthetic research and perfect mastery of the material.

By the quality of its execution, the accuracy of its proportions and the emotional intensity it exudes, this ivory Christ reflects a high cultural and artistic level, both on the part of the sculptor and the commissioner.

Jaillot is particularly renowned for his Christs on the Cross, characterized by:
- a highly studied anatomy,
- a dramatic tension of the body,
- expressive faces,
- dynamic drapings influenced by the Italian Baroque.

Although few works are signed, several ivory sculptures have been attributed to him by stylistic similarity, notably in Parisian collections and at public sales. His workshop helped disseminate a powerful, expressive style that became emblematic of 17thᵉ century Parisian religious sculpture.

Nice condition. Sold with a certificate of authenticity & CITES