Corpus figure, copper alloy, cast and gilded, England ca.1350

Gilded bronze, cast and chased. The figure cast hollow. The head crowned with plaited thorns, droops towards the right side. Beard and hair in long curly locks. Ribs and muscles of the body appear prominently. Loin- cloth draped in voluminous folds, falling below the knees. Legs superimposed, the feet modelled separately.

IMAGES OF THE CRUCIFIED CHRIST

Man's salvation through Christ's death on the cross and resurrection is the core belief of Christianity. From the earliest times the cross became the archetypal symbol of the religion.

The figures of Christ in this display would all originally have been fitted to metal crosses and used for veneration on the altar or carried in procession. The crosses themselves have been lost or melted down but the figures have been preserved, probably for their artistic and spiritual value.

Throughout the Middle Ages the image of Christ underwent a remarkable evolution, reflecting the gradually changing theology of Christ. The Gospels tell of him being stripped of his clothes to be crucified, but artists never depicted him naked. Early examples project an image in full length tunic or long skirt, eyes open, wearing a royal crown and epitomising the concept of his kingship and triumph over death. From about 1200 western artists focused on Christ's human suffering and depicted him in death, or dying, broken and tormented.

This figure of Christ was once fixed to a metal cross. The core belief of Christianity is human salvation through Christ’s death on the cross and his Resurrection. The cross therefore has long been the central symbol of Christianity and a focus of veneration.

M.74-1925