Footed bowl with the Crucifixion

This dish is an outstanding example of the painted, tin-glazed earthenware known as maiolica that was produced in Italy during the sixteenth century. It belongs to a type of maiolica called istoriata, meaning painted with stories, and these were most often sourced from the Bible, ancient Roman history or Greek myths.

The scene of Christ’s Crucifixion is ingeniously arranged within the circular form of the dish. Its painting is rich and complex with an exceptional variety of colour, expressive figures, beautifully rendered textures and a dramatic crowd scene. On the back, angels hover in and out of clouds, carrying symbols of Christ’s Passion (Death and Resurrection). Such continuity of subject matter is rare in maiolica and might suggest that the bowl had a religious function and could have been used during Mass in a private chapel.

Courtauld insight

"The religious imagery of this superb dish would have appealed to its nineteenth-century owner Thomas Gambier Parry (1816–1888). A devout Christian, Gambier Parry was a discerning collector whose love of beauty was intertwined with a longing for sacred encounter. This artwork speaks to his unwavering belief that great religious art connects the soul to God."

Devon Abts, Assistant Director of The Henry Luce III Center for Arts & Religion, Washington DC (former Courtauld Gallery intern)