Christ on the Cross

The most remarkable object in the parish church at Fontevraud is this polychrome wooden sculpture of Christ on the cross. It was carved in the 15th century but discovered in the attic of the presbytery in 1952. The body is tortured, but the face peaceful. His fingers are extended in a gesture of benefaction.

I think this crucifixion is an arresting and moving work of art (although it fails to stir any strictly religious feelings in me). Compare it to this much cruder crucifix from Ligeuil, with its agonised and despairing Christ who is nonetheless in the same tradition, and was also found tucked away out of sight in an attic.