Hand-Carved Mexican Folk Art Crucifix – 20th Century Polychrome Christ Figure
 
Description:
This striking 20th-century Mexican folk art sculpture depicts Jesus Christ in the crucifixion position, meticulously hand-carved from wood and vividly polychromed (painted in multiple colors) to heighten its dramatic impact. The piece captures the intense sorrow and physical agony of the Passion, with detailed stigmata wounds on the hands, feet, and chest, as well as cascading blood that emphasizes the sacrifice. The expressive facial features and taut musculature reflect the influence of Spanish Colonial sacred art, particularly the hyper-realistic style developed in 17th-century Spain to counter Protestantism through emotionally charged Catholic imagery.
 
Crafted by an unnamed Mexican artisan, this crucifix exemplifies the tradition of devotional folk art meant to inspire piety through visceral realism. The figure is affixed to its cross with wire, later reinforced with copper repairs. While some original elements are missing due to age, the sculpture retains its powerful presence, with weathered paint adding to its historical character.
 
Materials:
 
Carved wood
 
Original polychrome paint (faded/worn in areas)
 
Wire and copper reinforcements
 
Dimensions:
Length 36.45cm x 24.15