French Baroque Chapel Crucifix in Bronze and Burlwood, Early 17th Century - 23¾"

A handsome chapel crucifix, early 17th century, likely from the Rhône Valley. A handsome bronze and burlwood altar crucifix, early 17th century, likely from the Rhône Valley, composed of a richly figured burlwood cross mounted on a stepped plinth and an expressive cast bronze corpus. The wood displays warm reddish-brown tones and striking figuring, while the bronze has acquired a mellow patina over time. Christ is depicted as Christus vivens, with an open chest and no side wound, wearing a softly modelled loincloth and secured to the cross with original nails, lacking only the nail to the left hand. The cross sits slightly forward on its stand. The projecting tenon beneath the base suggests it was originally fitted into a larger liturgical support or altar furnishing.

 Displayed on a mantel, console, centre table, or pedestal, it brings depth, history, and quiet gravitas to an interior. Its enduring spiritual presence invites reflection, while the contrast between the aged bronze and figured burlwood lends warmth and character. Good antique condition, with expected wear to the wood and light rubbing to the bronze. Evidence of historic woodworm, long inactive and treated as a precaution.