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.

"The Crowning with Thorns"
Artist: Caravaggio
1607
Painting

The painting shows a crown made of thorns forcefully put on Jesus’ head just before he is about to be crucified in order to mock at his claims of holding authority.

This Italian Baroque oil on canvas painting measures 127 cm × 165.5 cm (50 in × 65.2 in) and is housed in the Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna, Austria.

"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.

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