81 The sculpture of the crucified Christ Considering the comparison to Mexican examples as well as the results of the analytical investigation of the polychromy and observing the visual and stylistic qualities, allows for an early dating of the sculpture. If our speculation that the Holy Cross retable was constructed not too long after 1567 (first known record of the intention to build it), it is possible that the sculpture of Christ has been imported for this altar, or the retable was made after the import of the crucifix. The last quarter of the 16th century is the period established for the completion of the entire work. Among the large number of comparable crucifixes that have survived, the crucifix in the cathedral in Puebla/Mexico is particularly similar both in form and polychrome decoration (Fig. 125, 126). It has been confirmed that this sculpture dates from the last quarter of 16th century.63 Condition Support The general condition was relatively good. The structure was firm enough to stay together. Surface holes due to insect infestation are visible on the entire sculpture. Severe losses in the surface of the hair, the beard, the fingers, and the eye were result of insect attack as well. The thumb of the right hand and the little finger on the left hand were missing, the index finger on the left hand was broken. The thorn crown was fragile, several thorns were missing. The arm joints were fragile and unstable. Polychromy The deterioration of the surface and poor overall condition of the sculpture with zones of flaking polychromy and with losses due to the insect attack were the cause for well-intentioned maintenance efforts by a layman, which made things even worse. The completely untouched original polychromy was painted over with glossy uniform synthetic commercial paint material (Fig.127 - 130). In the context of this treatment, the broken left shoulder was repaired and strengthened with a medical bandage of cotton with gypsum, the same technique was used to “repair” the damaged left eye. The pattern and seam of the perizonium have been completely painted over with “bronze” paint. A crude textile addition to the perizonium
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