Large Peruvian Hand-Painted Wooden Arma Christi Cross with Ceramic Jesus – 23"

A striking hand-carved and hand-painted Arma Christi cross from Peru, standing an impressive 23 inches tall. This vivid example of Andean folk devotion features a ceramic figure of Jesus beneath the “INRI” plaque, surrounded by symbolic elements of the Passion — the ladder, dice, nails, skull, sun, and moon — each rendered in bold, expressive colors of green, red, yellow, and blue. The floral and geometric patterns throughout the cross and stepped base speak to the distinctive artistry of Peruvian craftsmen, blending Catholic symbolism with Indigenous decorative traditions.

Beyond its beauty, every element carries meaning: the ladder recalls Christ’s descent from the cross; the dice evoke the casting of lots for His garments; the sun and moon witness His sacrifice and cosmic triumph. Even the flowers, radiating across the painted surface, symbolize rebirth and divine renewal. Together they transform the instrument of suffering into an emblem of eternal life — a union of faith, art, and nature deeply rooted in Andean spirituality.

This piece embodies Peru’s enduring devotional heritage, where sacred imagery and folk craftsmanship intertwine to powerful effect. Both an object of reflection and a captivating display piece, it invites contemplation of the Passion while celebrating the color and vitality of the Andean world.

Condition:

Good overall, with no remarkable damage. Surfaces show the rustic finish typical of hand-carved and hand-painted Peruvian folk art. Colors remain vibrant, and the structure is stable. The ceramic figure of Jesus is intact and securely affixed.

Dimensions:

Overall: 23" H x 11.5" W x 5.75" D
Material: Carved wood with hand-painted details; ceramic figure of Jesus.
Marked: “Made in Peru” label on underside.
Please Note: Soup for Scale in Photo

A beautifully detailed and colorful example of Peruvian devotional folk art, this large Arma Christi cross captures the deep symbolic tradition of the Andes in vivid form — an impressive piece for collectors of Latin American art or sacred décor.