[Capt. Tom]

There is also a great deal of archaeological evidence to support the use of nails. Yes they were probably put through the wrists, but that is splitting hairs.

As far as supporting the body the victims were secured with ropes and sometimes in addition to the ropes nails were used. But the body weight was carried on a projecting peg from the upright beam called a sedile. That is not mentioned in the NT but has been described by Roman writers.

The foot rest was unknown, and appeared only in Christian art.

The victims were only a foot or two off the ground. So say my sources. - Tom

[Swordmaker]

But the body weight was carried on a projecting peg from the upright beam called a sedile. That is not mentioned in the NT but has been described by Roman writers. The foot rest was unknown, and appeared only in Christian art.

Sorry, but the sedile IS the footrest, if it could be called that. It actually was a piece of wood that made it easier to nail the feet to the cross. It was sometimes used, especially on stipes that were permanent.