Crucifix

Abstract

In the Fugger Chapel, located in the right aisle of Santa Maria dell’Anima in Rome, hangs a larger-than-life polychrome wooden crucifix attributed to Giovanni Montano (1534–1621) and dated to 1584. Commissioned by the administrators of the church, the sculpture reflects the artistic and religious reforms of its time. Originally suspended on a cross, the crucifix was later integrated into the marble frame of the altar in the 18th century. It was likely inspired by a similar work in Santa Prassede and was created as part of the broader interior revitalization of the church encouraged by Pope Gregory XIII (reigned 1572–1585). Christ is depicted with a powerful, muscular physique, his abdominal muscles and biceps carefully sculpted. He hangs high on the cross, his head turned to the right. The fifth wound, prominently carved into his right side, is large, and while the surrounding polychromy has worn over time, it was likely once a vivid red. Photograph(s) licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International Licence.