Bronze Crucifix
Item
Accession Number
2024.70.
Title
Bronze Crucifix
Ethnic Group
Kongo
Subject
Object|Ritual|Central Africa
Country
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Date
Early 20th Century
Medium
Bronze
Format
H x W x D: 12 in x 5 3/16 in 1 1/4 in (30.48 cm x 13.176 cm x 3.175 cm)
Description
The bronze crucifix was used as a symbol of chiefdom in the Kongo society, also seen as a symbol of spiritual power. The cross shape and representation of Christ was informed by earlier European versions.The crucifix has four figures; Christ in the center and three praying figures surrounding him. The placement of the figures is quite common in the Kongo depictions of the crucifix. The depiction of Christ in this crucifix reflects the imagery and aesthetics of the Kongo style, as seen by the modeling of the body and coiffure.
Type
Crucifix
