Antique Hand-Carved Crucifix with Bone Figure | Circa 18th–19th Century
Description
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Historical Context & Origin
Region: Spanish Colonial Territories (Mexico, Peru, or the Philippines)
Material: Hand-carved wood, tin repoussé, and bone (Corpus Christi figure)
Period: Circa 18th–19th Century
Description
An evocative Spanish Colonial crucifix crafted from wood sheathed in hand-hammered tin repoussé, featuring a delicately carved bone figure of Christ. The tin covering displays raised circular and rosette motifs, symbolizing divine radiance and eternity. The reverse reveals the raw wooden structure with remnants of early paint and oxidation, testifying to its devotional age. Measuring 18 inches high, this piece reflects the powerful religious artistry of the colonial period.
Features
- Tin repoussé decoration with embossed circular designs
- Hand-carved bone corpus figure with detailed anatomy
- Original dark patina with traces of age and oxidation
- Mounted on a square wooden base for stability
- Retains authentic devotional presence and colonial aesthetic
Cultural Significance
Crucifixes of this type were central to Spanish Colonial worship, found in mission churches, monasteries, and private homes across the New World. The combination of European Christian iconography and locally adapted craftsmanship captures the blending of cultures that defined the Spanish Empire’s sacred art. Tin was often used as a substitute for silver in remote regions, offering an affordable yet visually striking devotional surface.
Condition
Good overall condition with expected age-related wear, surface oxidation, and minor losses. Notable break and loss to the right arm of the Christ figure; otherwise structurally sound with stable presentation. The piece retains its original aged surfaces and devotional integrity.
Dimensions
Height: 18 in
Width: 8 in
Depth: 3 in
Age
Circa 18th–19th Century
Description
Historical Context & Origin
Region: Spanish Colonial Territories (Mexico, Peru, or the Philippines)
Material: Hand-carved wood, tin repoussé, and bone (Corpus Christi figure)
Period: Circa 18th–19th Century
Description
An evocative Spanish Colonial crucifix crafted from wood sheathed in hand-hammered tin repoussé, featuring a delicately carved bone figure of Christ. The tin covering displays raised circular and rosette motifs, symbolizing divine radiance and eternity. The reverse reveals the raw wooden structure with remnants of early paint and oxidation, testifying to its devotional age. Measuring 18 inches high, this piece reflects the powerful religious artistry of the colonial period.
Features
- Tin repoussé decoration with embossed circular designs
- Hand-carved bone corpus figure with detailed anatomy
- Original dark patina with traces of age and oxidation
- Mounted on a square wooden base for stability
- Retains authentic devotional presence and colonial aesthetic
Cultural Significance
Crucifixes of this type were central to Spanish Colonial worship, found in mission churches, monasteries, and private homes across the New World. The combination of European Christian iconography and locally adapted craftsmanship captures the blending of cultures that defined the Spanish Empire’s sacred art. Tin was often used as a substitute for silver in remote regions, offering an affordable yet visually striking devotional surface.
Condition
Good overall condition with expected age-related wear, surface oxidation, and minor losses. Notable break and loss to the right arm of the Christ figure; otherwise structurally sound with stable presentation. The piece retains its original aged surfaces and devotional integrity.
Dimensions
Height: 18 in
Width: 8 in
Depth: 3 in
Age
Circa 18th–19th Century
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