Christ on the Cross

This is one of Gualterio’s many ivory Crucified Christs, sharing common features with other examples. 

It depicts a crucifixion with a single nail, which secures both legs. A delicate contrapposto and realistic anatomy perfectly capture the tension of the muscles and the bones of the ribs. The head falls to one side, limp, with a face expressing suffering, suggesting a humanized vision of Christ that reflects the values of the Counter-Reformation, through art that sought to restore the educational value of medieval images.