The sculpture of the Christ of the blood: Structural mechanical analysis based on 3D models and video techniques for the study of recurrent pathologies

Abstract

The Christ of the Blood is an emblematic work of Spanish baroque sculpture. A sculptural heritage from the 17th century, unique for its symbolism and turbulent history. It was badly damaged during the Spanish Civil War and was divided into thirty fragments, which were recomposed by important local sculptors of the time through complex interventions. As is tradition, after the war, the sculpture has continued to be paraded in a procession every year on the occasion of Holy Week. The movements derived from this parade affect the integrity of the sculpture, although in a particular and critical way on the right foot, which requires recurrent interventions from the 1940s to the present day. There is a dilemma between tradition and preservation, between devotion and integrity. The studies and tests carried out so far are limited to the evaluation of the state of the structure, the materials and the application of new conservation treatments, but they do not contribute decisively to the prevention of its degradation. The research presented here aims to develop a dynamic structural study of the forces and stresses to which the sculpture is subjected during its annual parade. To do this, computer simulation by finite elements is chosen, which requires a three-dimensional model which is available as a result of previous research. At the same time, advanced video measurement techniques are used to obtain initial data for the simulation process, such as maximum acceleration. Finally, possible solutions are provided that allow the repair, prevention and conservation of this invaluable heritage asset, as well as a technical assessment and economic investment of the application of each of them.