19th-Century French Devotional Crucifix in Ornate Frame

This unusual 19th-century devotional crucifix is set within an ornate, freestanding metal frame, its scrolling foliate border enclosing a finely modelled figure of Christ beneath the traditional INRI plaque. The richly worked surround gives the small crucifix an almost architectural presence, designed for intimate display on a bedside table, mantel or private devotional altar. Walter Wells began collecting crucifixes over many years, finding them in Paris shops and Provençal brocantes. Mostly French and dating from the 17th to 19th centuries, his collection reflects his fascination with their remarkable variations in form, materials and detail. Raised in a strict Protestant tradition where religious imagery was largely absent, Walter came to see each one not simply as an object, but as an individual expression of sacrifice, grace, forgiveness and acceptance. Several crucifixes from his collection are available for separate purchase.