The controversial crucifix in the Bargello

FLORENCE, ITALY – It is shown at the Museum of the Bargello in Florence The “Crucifixion” attributed to Michelangelo, who is also the center of an investigation by the Corte dei Conti for the alleged loss of revenue.

The work in polychrome linden wood (which measures 41.3 x39, 7 cm), once acquired by the State, between late 2008 and early 2010 has been shown in various Italian cities (Rome, Trapani, Palermo, Milan, Naples), then has reached the laboratory for the restoration of the Supervising Special Museums of Florence where, has been inspected and subjected to a maintenance also includes some minor renovations, as explained by the Superintendent Cristina Acidini.

After this intervention, in December 2011, the ‘Crucifixion’ has been made an X-ray computed tomography imaging in the laboratory of Careggi hospital that has provided important new elements in-depth knowledge of the product.

Giancarlo Gentilini, professor of modern art history in Perugia, even before 2004, along with othe two professors Umberto Baldini and Luciano Bellosi, had suggested the attribute the “Crucifixion” to a young Michelangelo for the strong inclination of the head, invented during the processing of the masterpiece, whereas in others crucifixes  is the revival of a model already encoded.

Massimo Gulisano, Professor of Anatomy in Florence, has outlined a series of “similarities” with two works by Michelangelo: the ‘Crucified’ wood of the Holy Spirit and the ‘David’ Academy. The Italian state had purchased the “Crucifixion” in 2008 for 3 million and 250 thousand euros from an antique shop in Turin. The Corte dei Conti suggests that they have paid too much, based on expert opinions that refer to a maximum of 700-800 thousand euros.