Artwork Page for The Crucifixion

Details / Information for The Crucifixion

The Crucifixion

c. 1730

Du Paquier Porcelain Manufactory

(Austrian, active 1719–1864)
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Culture
Austria, Vienna
Medium
porcelain, ebonized wood cross with gilt bronze mounts
Measurements
Overall: 100 x 36.5 cm (39 3/8 x 14 3/8 in.)
Credit Line
Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund 1997.185
Public Domain
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Location
214 Central and Northern European
Print

Description

The second oldest European porcelain factory after that at Meissen (in Germany) was set up in Vienna in 1716. During its early years, the Vienna factory was privately owned by a court official, Claudius Innocentius Du Paquier, and its early wares—made before 1744—carry his name. They are characterized by energetic shapes, strong colors, and the use of gold for surface decoration. This is the only Du Paquier crucifix known today. The figure of Christ closely resembles the work of Vienna's most famous sculptor, Georg Raphael Donner (1693–1741), and was probably created by one of his followers especially to be used on this crucifix. The anatomical accuracy and precise detail of the figure, along with the abundance of gold decoration, indicate that the piece was probably a special commission intended for a distinguished patron, possibly a member of the Hungarian Esterházy family.
A porcelain and wood sculpture depicts the crucified Christ. The white figure's head tilts toward his right shoulder with arms angled upward. Red spots mark his hands, side, and feet. A gold cloth wraps his waist. Above him, a small gold plaque sits on the black cross topped with a crown. The assembly rests on an ornate white, gold, and purple base with scrolled feet and lattice-patterned panels.

The Crucifixion

c. 1730

Du Paquier Porcelain Manufactory

(Austrian, active 1719–1864)
Austria, Vienna

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