Striking 23 Inch Crown of Thorns with Amazing Craquelure Surface pipe dream I believe this light gray

I believe this light gray against red woolen needlepoint dates to the 19th century

with a few tears and folds near the top

I know was made on a trip to Brittany in 1909

Heavy and very substantial

As basted: 11" x 10"

Striking 23 Inch Crown of Thorns with Amazing Craquelure Surface pipe dream I believe this light grayHoly moly. View detail photos for a sense of the amazing surface on this old tramp art "crown of thorns" cross, which stands just shy of 23 inches tall. Up close it reads as if painted a dark red with this black, almost tar layer over top, which enhances its gothic feel. At the same time, the form, constructed of interlocking, individually carved pieces (no glue), is to my eye quite an elegant one, striking and almost spare. Beautifully executed, late