Very large Christ of Deposition, Germany, 17th c.

Very large (1.42m) and rare Christ, probably of the Process of Deposition, carved in limewood.
Originally painted, traces of preparation especially on the very beautiful perizonium; one finger of the right hand restored.
An unusual representation of Christ who, rather than being on the Cross, is shown lying down, waiting for the body to be washed before his entombment.
A dent in the back and an old iron clasp suggest that it may have been hung on the wall, but the first explanation seems more plausible.
Southern Germany, possibly Bamberg, 17th c.
A very beautiful and realistic piece.