Crucifix (Michelangelo)

The Crucifix attributed to Michelangelo is a wooden sculpture depicting the crucifixion of Jesus. There is considerable debate amongst art historians regarding its authenticity, with arguments both for and against Michelangelo's authorship.

The Crucifix resides in the Basilica di Santo Spirito in Florence, Italy. It is carved from limewood and measures approximately 41.3 inches (105 cm) in height. The work portrays a young, idealized Christ figure with serene features, a departure from the more traditionally gaunt and suffering depictions common at the time. The body is slender and relatively unmuscular, conveying a sense of grace and vulnerability.

The rediscovery of the Crucifix in the late 20th century sparked the attribution debate. Supporters of the Michelangelo attribution cite its anatomical accuracy, the youthful beauty of the figure, and the psychological depth of the portrayal as hallmarks of the artist's style. They also point to documented interactions between the young Michelangelo and the Prior of Santo Spirito, who allowed the artist to study anatomy through dissections in the basilica's hospital. This access, it's argued, would have provided Michelangelo with the anatomical knowledge evident in the sculpture.

Those who question the attribution raise concerns about the lack of definitive documentary evidence linking the sculpture directly to Michelangelo. They also argue that the style, while displaying elements of Renaissance naturalism, does not fully align with the more mature sculptural style evident in undisputed works like the David or the Pietà. The softness and lack of pronounced musculature are cited as deviations from Michelangelo's later, more powerful forms.

The attribution of the Santo Spirito Crucifix remains a subject of scholarly debate, with no definitive consensus reached. Further research and analysis, including advanced scientific examination of the wood and pigments, may be necessary to provide more conclusive evidence regarding its true authorship.