Casgliadau Arlein

Late medieval copper alloy depiction of the Corpus Christi, crucifixion of Christ, probably from a Processional Cross of 15th century date. The cast figure is depicted in the round and is heavily corroded and fragmetary, missing both arms, one lower leg and the other foot. Christ is wearing the crown of thorns, now survived as a raised band over the brow and on the rear, overlying long hair falling onto the shoulders. Christ's head is against his right shoulder, with his bearded chin resting on the chest. Corrosion has masked much of the minor facial details but the sunken eyes, ridge for the nose and mouth moulding are evident. The upper arms are angled upwards. The body has a slightly distorted profile, exaggerating the arched form. Folded draperyof the loincloth is discernable around the hips and thighs and is tied in the middle. The right leg is depicted projecting forwar slightly. The rear of the figure had an oval aperture for attachment to the cross, now damaged. The figure and depiction of Christ can be paralleled with an example on a Processional Cross from Christchurch Mansion, now in Ipswich Museum (Hourihane, 2005, Cross 10, p.85-6) date to 1490-1500.