Deposition

Abstract

This large-scale, well-preserved Deposition group (with the original cross, ladder, and pliers for removing the nails) is documented to have been made for the Cathedral of Volterra, where it still stands, in 1228. It is one of many such Deposition groups that were made in the Duecento. The theatrical nature of the group may reflect contemporary passion plays and also helps us envision how crucifixes with hinged shoulders would have been dramatized through a reenactment of this scene on Good Friday. The group is remarkably well-preserved and includes the original cross, polychromy and gilding and silvering. The cross, for example, is ornamented with delicate vegatal scrolls and silver leaf (now tarnished) with green lake. Photograph(s) licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.