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 Lamentation at the Foot of the Cross"
Artist: Giovanni Domenico Tiepolo
1780
Painting

Giovanni Domenico Tiepolo's (1727–1804) The Lamentation at the Foot of the Cross is an eighteenth-century depiction of Christ's death, though it bears strong similarities to Rembrandt's Lamentation. Tiepolo may well have seen Rembrandt's version, which at the time was in possession of the British Consul, Joseph Smith (1682–1770) who lived in Venice.

In Tiepolo's version, Mary Magdalene is shown with blonde rather than red hair. In 1760, Tiepolo created a preparatory sketch for the composition with charcoal and ink.

"The Crucifixion: Behold Thy Mother"
Artist: William Blake
1805
Painting

A traditional and popular scene from the Passion, and refers to the gospel of John, chapter 19 verses 26-27:
When Jesus therefore saw his mother, and the disciple standing by, whom he loved, he saith unto his mother, “Woman, behold thy son!” Then saith he to the disciple, “Behold thy mother!” And from that hour that disciple took her unto his own home.

This work is ink and watercolour on paper, measures 41.3 x 30 cm, and is housed in The Tate Gallery

- page 27 of 32 -