Florentine sculptor, Crucifix of the main altar of the Cathedral

Author
Florentine sculptor
Date
1450-1499
Collocation
Sala delle cantorie
Original location
Cathedral, high altar
Material
Wood, pigments
Technique
Sculpture, painting
Dimensions
Height: 170 cm; Width: 145 cm; Length: 60 cm;

Crucifix in polychrome wood, the exquisite work of an unknown Florentine master, dates back to the 1470s and was located above the main altar of the Cathedral until 1509 when it was moved to the Canons Sacristy. The tradition of placing a crucifix above the altar was meant to underline the connection between the Eucharistic bread, consecrated by the priest during mass, and Jesus himself, consecrated on the cross. The artist has skillfully rendered the exact moment of Christ’s passing; the tense muscles relaxing and his expression serene as death approaches. His slightly parted lips seem to be whispering his last words, full of trust in God’s love, which were according to the Gospels: ”Father, into your hands I commit my Spirit”. 

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Sala delle Cantorie