19th Century Crucifix Passion Instruments German Folk Art Carving

This beautiful and rare piece is entirely hand carved. Made in Germany, in the region of the Black Forest about 1860.

The cross is made of one piece of lime tree wood. The surface is carved in tree bark manner. On the cross are the miniatures of Arma Christi objects (Instruments of Passion) carved, pincer, lance, Veronica's wail and –very rare and interesting- Jacob's ladder – the ladder to heaven. The Instruments of Passion have a long tradition in iconography, dating back to the 9th century.

The Christ is very fine carved; the artist had good anatomy knowledge. The base of the crucifix looks like a hillock. Old work with wooden nails. The condition is good to very good. One step of the ladder is broken.

Jesus body has some chips and the arms are missing. The carving was for many, many years painted with kind of lacquer, this coat is partially worn.

Height: 20 inches, the measurements of the base: 4 x 5.6 inches.

Item ID: CRUCIFIX_4521