Christ Crowned with Thorns

Artist/Culture German

Date1450–1499

Mediumpainted limestone

Dimensions34.3 x 23.5 x 16.5 cm (13 1/2 x 9 1/4 x 6 1/2 in.)

ClassificationsSculpture

Credit LineGift of Aldus C. Higgins

Terms

sculpture

Object number1938.3

DescriptionMultiple layers of paint, almost certainly the result of ongoing devotional use over a long period of time. The stubs of some kind of "thorns" can be seen in the holes around the crown.
Label TextIn the late Middle Ages, in both Germany and the Low Countries, a religious devotion grew that focused on the Passion of Christ. Artists responded by capturing the horror of Christ’s sufferings in a new half-length image that became known as the Man of Sorrows. Alternately, this head and shoulders may have been part of a full-length sculpture depicting Christ waiting to be nailed to the cross. By means of the sunken eyes, open mouth, and emaciated physique the artist suggests Christ's death at impending crucifixion.

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