Tabwa Bronze Crucifix, Democratic Republic of Congo

A cross with a small crowd of figures at its edges.

Tabwa artists of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Central Africa, cast this crucifix in bronze in the 20th century. Crucifixes in Central Africa often reflect the long history of Christian missions, and local makers frequently added their own figures and styles. A Christ figure with outstretched arms is attached to the upright, with two small standing figures on the crossbar and more faces along the shaft. A loop at the top allows for hanging.

A good wall piece for a narrow space. Quiet, and quietly strange.