Holt Antiques at Walsingham Mill
Large Late 15th-Century Antique Carved Limewood Sculpture - Corpus Christi
Large Late 15th-Century Antique Carved Limewood Sculpture - Corpus Christi
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Large Late 15th-Century Carved Limewood Corpus Christi Probably German or Netherlandish, c. 1480–1500
A profoundly moving late medieval sculpture of the crucified Christ, carved from limewood and retaining traces of its original polychrome. This Corpus Christi—measuring approximately 68 cm high (26.8 inches)—is a powerful devotional object, likely once affixed to a large crucifix or rood beam within a church or private chapel.
The anatomy is sensitively rendered, with a pronounced ribcage, elongated limbs, and a gentle contrapposto that imbues the figure with both suffering and grace. The head tilts downward in a gesture of resignation, the eyes closed in death, the mouth slightly parted. Despite the loss of arms and cross, the torso alone conveys the full emotional weight of the Passion.
Stylistically, the carving aligns with the late Gothic traditions of southern Germany or the Low Countries, where such devotional figures were central to affective piety. The surviving polychromy—faint yet evocative—hints at the original lifelike finish that would have heightened the viewer’s emotional engagement.
This is a rare and evocative survival from the twilight of the medieval world, suitable for both private devotion and scholarly appreciation. A museum-worthy piece with exceptional presence.
Provenance: Late 15th Century. Attributed to Germany or Netherlandish.
Condition: Please refer to the images.
Dimensions: 68 cm high × 24 cm wide × 7 cm deep (26.8 × 9.4 × 2.8 inches)
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