THE PASSION ALTARPIECE

SUPPORT AND ELABORATION 

Fast-growing oak. Though the altarpiece comprises 5 groups of figures, the largest-sized group of figures belonging to the central section is made up of two more adjacent ones. 

The actual construction is irregular. Each group is made up of several pieces of wood, even sometimes forming two large blocks either joined together with dowels or a jigsaw puzzle of smaller fragments apparently assembled without too much dexterity or skill. Certain protruding elements such as arms, may be independent pieces attached to the figures using through bolts. In some cases, fibre malformations were eliminated and replaced with pieces nailed into place using deep countersinks.  

Cuts are far from being orthodox. A relief can cover almost the entire section of a trunk, making up its nucleus. The rears of some figures are deeply hollowed out. Marks of saws and other woodworking tools may be observed, in addition to gouge work on floors designed to imitate irregular terrain.