Cuneo Civic Museum - The Crucifix

The Crucifix

In the apse of the Church of San Francesco in Cuneo, the cast of the imposing crucifix from the mid-fifteenth century stands out, identified with the sculpture that stood out in the presbytery of the place of worship in the Middle Ages.

The original work is preserved in the parish church of Borgo San Giuseppe and was discovered during the cataloguing campaign promoted in 2005 by the Italian Episcopal Conference.

Made in Liguria and dating to the mid-15th century, the crucifix underwent numerous changes over time: in the 17th century, when the altar and tabernacle were being renovated, it was moved to the Chapel of the Cruciata, on the monument's right aisle. Following the Napoleonic suppressions, it was then moved to the nearby Hospital of Santa Croce, where it was hung first in the chapel and then in the wards. It remained there until 1961, when it was moved to the new parish on the banks of the Gesso.

The detailed description of the anatomical details of the dying Christ, which highlights the muscular tension, the wrinkles of the skin torn by the nails, the precise definition of the still pulsing veins on the belly and arms, the twisted locks of hair and the gaunt face, produce a strong evocative power and highlight, on the part of the author, identified as the sculptor Giacobino d'Ormea, a discreet but precise search for pathos.