Christ on the Cross

Origin: French, Abbey of Grandmont near Limoges
Date: Late 12th century
Medium: Gilt copper with inlaid enamel
Ackland Fund
70.28.1

This crucifix was carried to and from the altar in a Catholic church as part of the ritual of the Mass, in which participants celebrate Jesus' death and resurrection. Christians believe that Jesus is the son of God, born of human form about 2000 years ago to offer human beings a model for living and the possibility of eternal life. Although the sad face and gaunt body show the pain that Jesus experienced when he was hung on a cross to die, the artist also created a colorful, flowering vine to symbolize the promising new life.