bronze, 2/2, 72 x 35 x 13

Research information

The first casting is owned by the Vatican Museums, Vatican. The work is accompanied by a written confirmation of casting and authenticity signed by Frane Kršinić, from 1980. The work is accompanied by an analysis and description by renowned critic Josip Depol, from 1997.

PROVENANCE

1980s, part of Jakov Sedlar's collection (film director); important private collection, Zagreb

Frano Kršinić (Lumbarda, 1897 – Zagreb, 1982) was one of the most important Croatian sculptors of the 20th century and a prominent representative of modern sculpture. His interest in stone and sculpture followed him from his childhood days on Korčula, where he acquired his first lessons. He studied in the Czech Republic, in Hořice and Prague, where he adopted classical sculpture techniques and a modernist expression. From 1924 he was a professor at the Zagreb Academy of Fine Arts, and from 1947 also the head of the Master's workshop, thus educating generations of young sculptors. He was one of the founders of the group "Zemlja" and a member of the "Independent Group of Croatian Artists". Kršinić is recognizable by his gentle, lyrical sculptures, with a lasting inspiration from the female nude, from a young and erotic female body to motifs of motherhood. In the late 1920s, he developed his own lyrical expression, but in his works, the influences of Prague education, modern French sculptors and I. Meštrović are occasionally visible. His sculptures stand out with elegance, sophistication and idealized beauty, simple lines and harmonious wholes, while in his oeuvre there are also works of local, portrait and monumental themes. During his career, he also created works of a sacred theme, such as "Saint Sebastian", "Madonna with Child" and "Christ" in the baptistry of the Korčula cathedral. The sculpture Crucifix, executed in bronze on a wooden cross, embodies Kršinić's ability to combine classical tradition with modernist simplicity. The figure of Christ, reduced to purified and elegant lines, exudes calmness and deep spirituality. With its harmony of shapes and universal symbolism, this sculpture illustrates Kršinić's contribution to modern sacred sculpture.

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