Christ Crucified

It is believed that this work was commissioned after Velázquez was cleared following an investigation by Inquisitors. The Spanish Inquisition was a result of a fear that the Jewish population was growing more powerful in Spain and marginalizing Christians. In 1478, a papal bull was decreed allowing Catholic monarchs to enforce religious conformity and expel Jews from Spain. Velázquez was accused of aligning with Jewish bankers over Genoese ones.

It’s believed that Jerónimo de Villanueva, the founder of the Convent of San Plácido, commissioned the work as a demonstration of Velázquez’ piety.

In this Spanish painting, Jesus’ pale complexion is contrasted against a dark background.  Velázquez doesn’t focus on the agony of the cross. Instead, He paints Jesus unadorned, the only thing giving away His divine identity is the halo around His head. 

this Baroque painting is housed in the Museo del Prado, Madrid.