ANTONIO SUSINI Cristo vivo 115759 1765 European art; part 1

The artwork presents a figure in a posture evocative of crucifixion, though without the cross itself being visible. The subject is rendered with considerable attention to anatomical detail; musculature is clearly defined across the torso and limbs, suggesting a deliberate emphasis on physical realism. A dark cloth drapes loosely around the lower body, providing a contrast in texture and tone against the polished surface of the figure’s skin.
The head is tilted slightly downwards, and the facial expression appears to convey a sense of suffering or resignation rather than overt agony. The hair is depicted as long and wavy, falling across the shoulders and down the back. A small beard and mustache are also visible.
The bronze material lends a warm, metallic sheen to the sculpture, which interacts with the light in a way that highlights the contours of the body. This reflective quality contributes to an overall impression of vitality; despite the posture suggesting sacrifice or pain, there is a sense of life and resilience conveyed through the figure’s form.
Subtly, the absence of the cross itself shifts the focus from the act of crucifixion as punishment to the individuals endurance and perhaps even triumph over adversity. The artist seems less concerned with depicting the brutality of the event than with exploring themes of suffering, strength, and a quiet dignity in the face of hardship. The polished surface could be interpreted as symbolizing purity or redemption, while the anatomical accuracy suggests an attempt at portraying humanity in its most vulnerable yet enduring state.