Altar Crucifix
unknown folk sculptor
Basic information
- ID
- С-I-1308
- Author
- unknown folk sculptor
- Name
- Altar Crucifix
- Date of creation
- 19th c.
- Country
- Ukraine
- Technique
- carving polychrome
- Material
- wood
- Dimensions (height x width x depth, cm)
- 50 x 11.7 x 23.5
Additionally
- Type
- decorative and applied arts
- Genre
- religious
- Plot
- Crucifixion
- Provenance
- Sykhiv village, Stryi district, Lviv region
Information about author
Object description
The work of a folk artist presents a carved wooden altar crucifix. The cross is mounted on a rounded base; its ends feature semicircular leaves that resemble clover leaves. This symbol is common in religious traditions and is considered to be the embodiment of the Holy Trinity. This type of cross was often used in the work of folk artists. The top is crowned with a plaque bearing an inscription symbolising Christ's title, “INRI" (Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews). The sculpture of Jesus has a distinct archaic character – an elongated body with pronounced thinness, arms raised and spread apart, which gives the composition a dramatic feel. The work demonstrates the folk artist's attempt to achieve anatomical accuracy in the reproduction of the human body, with the ribs, sunken abdominal cavity, and muscles clearly outlined. The Saviour's head is tilted to the right, topped with a crown of thorns, and his face is rendered schematically without detail. The figure is nailed to the cross in accordance with Western iconographic tradition. The work shows significant signs of age: the wood has darkened, there are losses and damage, but this gives it a special, authentic power. The carving conveys the simplicity and sincerity of the folk artist. This work of sacred sculpture combines strict forms with spiritual expression and the profound symbolism of suffering and hope.
Legal regulation
Borys Voznytskyi Lviv National Art Gallery
