Coesfeld Cross, Gothic crucifix in Coesfeld, Germany.
The Coesfeld Cross is a Gothic wooden sculpture carved from walnut and oak that stands inside the Church of Saint Lambert, distinguished by its size and intricate craftsmanship. The figure of Christ displays detailed surface work with wounds and veins rendered in applied material, showcasing the artisan's technical skill.
The cross was created in the early 15th century and represents a surviving example of Gothic craftsmanship in Westphalia. It has been preserved and continues to stand as evidence of the religious devotion and artistic skill of that era.
The cross serves as the centerpiece of an annual Pentecost procession called Hessenutjacht that winds through the city streets in thanksgiving. Local residents gather for this traditional celebration, which remains an important ritual in the community's religious life.
The cross is located inside the Church of Saint Lambert in the city center and is freely accessible to visitors. The best time to visit is during the Pentecost celebrations when the Hessenutjacht procession takes place and the work becomes the focus of community ritual.
The cross contains special cavities in the left chest and head sections that once held relics, including a fragment of the true cross itself. These hidden chambers reveal how artworks of that period served as precious containers for sacred objects.
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