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Beautiful 1930s Art Deco–Era Gilt Metal Corpus
Offered here is a striking antique metal figure of Jesus Christ, originally mounted to a large crucifix or devotional cross. Dating to approximately the 1930s, this substantial 7-inch-tall corpus has wonderful sculptural presence, finely rendered anatomical details, and a deep, rich golden finish that has aged beautifully.
The figure is depicted in the traditional crucifixion pose, with outstretched arms, carefully modeled hands and feet, a flowing loincloth, and an expressive downward-turned face. The sculptor gave particular attention to the hair, beard, rib cage, musculature, and folds of the fabric. Even removed from its original cross, it remains an especially powerful piece of early-20th-century religious art.
Rich Gilt Finish
The warm, unusually deep gold coloring appears consistent with an old gilt or gold-plated finish, rather than ordinary modern gold paint. This has not been tested for actual gold content, so the exact composition cannot be guaranteed, but the quality, depth, and durability of the surface strongly suggest a finer period-applied finish.
Time has softened the brilliance into a beautiful antique patina, allowing darker tones to settle into the recessed details while the raised surfaces retain their warm golden glow. The result is far more interesting than a newly polished religious figure—it has the quiet richness that can only come from genuine age.
Salvaged From an Antique Crucifix
This figure was removed or salvaged from its original cross and is being offered as the metal corpus alone. It would be ideal for:
Restoring an antique crucifix
Mounting to a handmade wooden cross
Incorporating into a religious shrine or devotional display
Framing in a shadow box
Using in an assemblage or ecclesiastical art project
Displaying as a meaningful piece of antique sacred art
Its impressive 7-inch height and 5-inch arm span indicate that it originally belonged to a fairly substantial wall crucifix rather than a small handheld or tabletop approximately 7 inches
Width across the outstretched arms: approximately 5 inches
Material: heavy cast metal
Finish: antique gilt or gold-colored plated finish; antique condition with an authentic, naturally aged patina. The casting remains strong and sharply detailed, and the rich golden surface has survived remarkably well for a figure dating to the 1930s.
There are visible age-related scuffs and finish wear across the forehead and knees, along with smaller marks and surface variations consistent with its age and former devotional use. These areas have been photographed and are mentioned for complete accuracy. The aging gives the figure tremendous character without diminishing its visual impact.
This listing is for the metal figure only. The original cross is no longer present, and mounting nails or hardware are not included. The buyer will need to supply appropriate small nails or fasteners for the intended mounting surface.
A handsome and substantial example of 1930s Art Deco–era devotional metalwork, equally suited to crucifix restoration, religious display, or a carefully curated collection of antique sacred objects.