Baccio da Montelupo, Crucifix

Carved and painted wooden crucifix, dated between the late-15th and early-16th centuries and attributed to Baccio da Montelupo. The sculpture shows the sober and elegant shapes characteristic of many works by this artist, and in keeping with the ideals of composure preached by Friar Girolamo Savonarola. Christ reclines in death, almost meekly, his mouth ajar to release the spirit; the congealed blood of his flank and crown of thorns are emphasised with Eucharistic and pietist meaning. In the early 20th century, the crucifix was moved from an earlier location to the rear wall of the Baptistery apse, backing the altar.