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 Crucified Christ"
Artist: Velázquez
1632
Painting

The work, painted in oil on canvas, measures 249 × 170 cm and is owned by the Museo del Prado. Christ has both arms drawn a subtle curve, instead of forming a triangle. The loincloth is painted rather small, thus showing the nude body as much as possible. The head shows a narrow halo, as if it came from the figure itself; the face is resting on the chest, showing just enough of his features. The long, straight hair covers a great part of the face, perhaps foreshadowing the death, already inflicted as shown by the wound on the right side.

"Christ Crucified"
Artist: Velázquez
1632
Painting

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.

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