Founded in the hills of Naples, the Royal Manufactory of Capodimonte stands like an artistic jewel, witness to the history and artistic refinement of Italy. Founded in the 18th century, the factory has stood the test of time, preserving its heritage while continuing to inspire art lovers the world over. The FCP Coridon gallery is currently presenting an exceptional piece, so let's discover it together...

CRUCIFIXION featuring fourteen figures in bas-relief in hand-painted polychrome porcelain in a blackened molded wooden frame with upside-down profile.

Mark of the Royal Manufactory of Capodimonte featuring a crowned "N" referring to the period from 1771 to 1834.

Naples, Italy

Late 18th century

Porcelain

H. 40.5; L. 32.5 cm (when viewed)

H. 66; W 59 cm (with frame)

This crucifixion is taken from the Gospel of Saint John (19, 25-27): "Now standing by the cross of Jesus were his mother and his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Cleophas, and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus saw his mother, and the disciple he loved standing beside her, he said to his mother, 'Woman, this is your son.

Mary Magdalene, in the center of the scene, aligned with Christ on the Cross, wears a yellow tunic with one shoulder uncovered. To her right, the Virgin Mary, her head covered in a blue cloth, almost wobbling, is supported by Mary, wife of Alphaeus, also known as Cleophas, in a purple garment, and John dressed in red. These colors refer to a particular symbolism: yellow echoes eternal light, blue the mantle of Humanity and red the Passion. The lower right of the scene features two horsemen, including Longin the centurion, the helmeted Roman soldier.

In the background, occupying the upper half: Christ and the two thieves.

On the right, Dismas, the good thief, looks at Christ, while Gestas, the bad thief, turns away. Both are tied by ropes to the patibulum of their T-shaped crosses. Christ's is Latin, with the Latin initials "INRI" on the upper stipes, referring to Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews.

The city of Jerusalem stands out in the background.

This composition is reminiscent of the Crucifixion in the missal of Jean Rolin's Master, or that of the Church of St. James in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany.

Text and photos © FCP CORIDON