Remarkable Ivory Sculpture Of Christ In The Louis XV–regency Style, In Its Original Frame

A superb, large figure of Christ on the cross (Corpus Christi) carved from fine ivory dating from the 17th century, presented in its exquisite period frame made of carved wood and gilded with gold leaf. The background is lined with red velvet, which perfectly highlights the ivory’s natural patina. It is surmounted by an ivory scroll bearing the inscription “INRI.”

Description of the period frame: The piece is set within a rich Louis XV-style frame made of carved and gilded wood. Its structure features a typically ecclesiastical shape known as a semicircular arch (with a rounded upper portion), which follows the silhouette of Christ on the cross. The inner and outer borders are accentuated by intricate moldings, adorned with scrollwork, stylized foliage, and ovule-and-pearl motifs characteristic of the period. The gold leaf gilding has a beautiful, luminous patina, with natural signs of wear that attest to its authenticity.

Remarkable craftsmanship: The anatomical details of Christ are rendered with great finesse. The drapery of the perizonium is richly textured, the muscles of the torso and ribcage are captured with great realism, and the network of veins is visible on the outstretched arms. 

Face and expression: Christ is depicted in suffering, his mouth slightly parted, clearly revealing the carved teeth—a testament to the extreme precision of the craftsmanship. The face is framed by a finely crafted beard and hair, and crowned with an openwork crown of thorns that is particularly detailed.

Condition: In good overall condition.

There are localized losses or wear on only three fingers (at the tips of the hands), as well as slight natural drying cracks and structural lines (particularly where the arms join), which are typical and attest to the age of the ivory.

Original fastenings on the hands. Some subtle signs of age on the gilding of the frame.

Technical Specifications and Dimensions

Material: Elephant ivory (Elephantidae spp.) and wood gilded with gold leaf

Period of the piece: 18th century (circa 1740–1760)

Height of Christ (head to feet): 27 cm

Wingspan (arm span): 22 cm

Overall dimensions of the frame: 42 cm x 56 cm