Dead Christ, 17th Century Bronze With Fine Patina

Dead Christ in finely chased and formerly gilded bronze. Italian work of the 17th century.
While distinct from Giambologna's celebrated model, it nevertheless shares its overall composition, particularly in the posture of body and the strongly flexed legs, twisted under grip of death.

Dimensions: 23 × 18 cm
Weight: 650 g

Christ is depicted with His head inclined to right, hair resting upon shoulder. Perizoma is short and unknotted, enhancing the elegance of figure's modelling. The legs are deeply bent, with feet nailed close together.

Cast in solid bronze with separately attached arms, the sculpture displays fine chasing throughout, evident in careful rendering of the skin, hair, and drapery. Originally mercury-gilded, it retains substantial traces of its gilding beneath a remarkable old patina with rich, shimmering tonal variations.

What I particularly appreciate is the wonderful expression of the face, where all suffering seems to have vanished, replaced by a profound serenity. The colourful reflections of the aged bronze further enhance the emotional presence of this work.

Found in untouched condition. Provenance: a large private residence near Nice, France. No noted defects.

Condition: As found, with an exceptional historic patina. No damage or restoration observed.