Design for a Crucifix 18th century

This "Design for a Crucifix" was made anonymously, using pen and reddish-brown ink on paper. The stark lines of the cross and the figure of Christ stand in contrast to the ornate base. The detailed rendering of the base suggests it was designed to be crafted from precious materials, possibly through techniques such as carving, casting, and goldsmithing. The drawing serves as a visual plan, representing the labor and skill involved in its potential creation. It embodies a fascinating paradox: it's a functional design, yet its meticulous detail elevates it to a work of art. Its existence prompts us to consider the blurred boundaries between design and craft, and the layers of artistic creation. It reminds us that design, like any form of making, has its own aesthetic value, its own potential for expression, and that the distinction between fine art and craft is not always clear-cut.