TABLE CROSS
Ebony wood, semiprecious stone inlays with gilded bronze parts
This important liturgical piece of furniture is decorated with semiprecious stone inlays (‘pietra dura’) and consists of a basis of architectural forms, while the central body is gabled and connected to the lower side elements by volutes, on which the actual cross is placed.
On it, the crucified Christ is mourned by the Virgin Mary, Saint John the Evangelist, and by a couple of angels. All these figures are gilt bronze. Additional inserts further enrich the work, such as a Veronica with the effigy of God, the dove of the Holy Spirit, and old- fashioned lion heads. Furthermore, the precious ends of the cross’ arms are richly decorated in a Mannerist style with cherub heads.
Florence, early 17th century
height cm 107
