Figure of Christ

It seems the figure was originally positioned in front of a whipping post. This is indicated by several small holes on the back area as well as the figure’s stance, which, however, in the absence of a post resembles more a step forward. Likewise, the right forearm is behind the figure’s back, because the hands were to be bound. Corresponding models of the figure of ‘Christ at the Column’ can be found not only in sculpture, but also as often in prints, too. There are stylistic parallels with works by Giambologna and his successors, Antonio Susini or Adriaen de Vries, who later worked in the northern Alpine region again. It is not known for certain when the figure was mounted on the base, which was made roughly at the same time. In any case, today the focus is more on the elongated and beautified body of Christ and not on the above-named scene from the Passion. (Arne Leopold)