Panel Carved In High Relief: Calvary With Saint Lawrence And A Holy Soldier, 17th Century

A large panel carved from thick softwood, decorated with a Calvary scene. In the center, the attached cross is surmounted by a gilded scroll bearing the inscription “INRI.” On the left, Saint Lawrence is depicted wearing an ornate dalmatic, holding the palm of martyrdom and his gridiron. On the right, a holy soldier wearing a helmet with a plume, holding a palm branch, serves as his counterpart. Both figures are rendered in high relief: the heads, drapery, and palm branches stand out clearly against the background, with highly expressive modeling. Baroque cloud motifs in relief enliven the upper portion, and the figures stand out against a background with a dark patina. The original gilding remains on the garments, the palms, the plume, and the scroll. Christ is now missing, but the composition, the cross, and the titulus remain perfectly legible. The work is typical of popular, provincial Baroque religious art, full of character, and reminiscent of works from the Alpine region.Its considerable thickness (6.5 cm) and the old fastenings on the reverse suggest it was part of a wood panel or religious furniture (altarpiece, sacristy cabinet, or panel from a larger ensemble), though its original function remains to be determined.A decorative piece with a strong presence, suitable for hanging or placing on a piece of furniture.
An antique piece presented in its original condition, with the wear and patina of age. Christ figure missing. Gilding partially worn but still clearly legible. Significant loss along the right edge, where a nailed-on strip of wood has a crack and signs of rot. Top of the reverse side weakened by moisture. Rough back with forged nails and antique iron rings, blackened edges, and a few drops of more recent paint. Old woodworm holes.
Dimensions:
H 61 × W 44 × D 6.5 cm