Crucifix (Michelangelo)

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Crucifix

Michelangelo, 1492

Polychrome wood

142 × 35 cm

Santa Maria del Santo Spirito di Firenze

The Crucifix is a polychrome wood sculpture by High Renaissance master Michelangelo, finished in 1492. It is located at the high altar of the church of Santa Maria del Santo Spirito in Florence, Italy.

Although some art historians have identified this work found in the sacristy of Santo Spirito as the wooden cross mentioned by early writers as having been carved by Michelangelo in 1492, the way the head and legs are treated in contrapposto suggests a search for classical harmony. The extremely soft modelling of Christ, his tender facial expression, and the complex anatomical structure have no counterpart in any of Michelangelo's youthful works, and some critics have reservations about its attribution to that artist. Specifically, the handling of the hair and the lack of precise anatomy strongly suggest that this work was inspired by Michelangelo's work, but created by some unknown artist well after Michelangelo's death.