Jesus' Crucifixion In Art

The symbol of Christ on the cross has infiltrated culture in innumerable ways, and depictions have become ubiquitous. There is no other subject matter that better reflects the historical progression of artistic expression. This is fitting, as there is no other event that has had comparable effect on all aspects of human history.

"Descent from the Cross"
Artist: Peter Paul Rubens
1611-14
Painting

Descent from the Cross is a triptych created by Flemish artist Peter Paul Rubens for the altar of the Cathedral of Our Lady in Antwerp, Belgium, commissioned by the city’s Guild of the Arquebusiers (“Musketeers”). Rubens began the work after his return from a prolonged visit to Italy, and the resulting altarpiece is rife with lessons he learned there, from the rich Venetian colors to the dramatic lighting of Caravaggio and the muscular perfection of classical sculpture.

"Crucifixion"
Artist: Anthony van Dyck
1622
Painting

vanm Dyck became the chief assistant to Peter Paul Rubens, the leading master painter of Antwerp and the whole of Northern Europe. Rubens operated a large workshop and often relied on sub-contracted artists. His influence on the young artist was immense. Rubens referred to the nineteen-year-old van Dyck as "the best of my pupils".

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