Polychromatic papier mƒch‚ relief, 85x78 + frame 5 cm, Inv. n. 204

This work can be dated to about 1460 and was acquired by the antiques dealer Ernesto Monti in 1937.
Christ, almost seated on the edge of the sarcophagus, is supported by two weeping angels. His body is still above the tomb, his knees inside it, and his sides are covered by a double white and blue loincloth. The face of the central angel is extremely expressive, representing the culmination of the pyramid composition formed together with Christ?s arm and the dramatic power expressed by the work.
This artefact in papier mƒch‚ is a rare example of art created using and economic technique. These works are part of the high-quality artistic craftsmanship intended for private devotion and also includes glazed ceramics, works in polychromatic earthenware and wooden sculptures.
The model of Faenza relief is can certainly be attributed to Donatello's workshop. The exasperation of the physiognomical features that characterises the suffering angels finds a significant parallel with the Pulpit panels made by Bartolomeo Bellano under the direction of Donatello for the Church of St. Lawrence in Florence.