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: Unknown
c. 1475 - 1500
Sculpture

In the fifteenth century the theme of the Deposition of Christ from the Cross, part of the Easter narrative, was often represented in liturgical dramas on Good Friday. Small reliefs like this one were usually part of a large altarpiece. The original paint is exceptionally well preserved.

This wood sculpture was made out of fruitwood and then painted. Measurements are Overall: 22 5/8 x 13 3/16 x 6 1/4 in. (57.5 x 33.5 x 15.9 cm)
with base: 23 5/8 x 13 3/4 x 6 1/4 in. (60 x 35 x 15.9 cm). It is hused in The Metropolital Museum of Art in New York City.

"The Resurrected Christ"
Artist: Bramantino
c. 1490
Painting

This panel depicting The Resurrected Christ was formerly in the collection of the Pusterla della Porta family in Milan, where it is recorded from 1590 until the first quarter of the 20th century. It was acquired for the Thyssen-Bornemisza collection in 1937. This painting is also known as The Risen Christ. It is mixed media on panel and measures 109 x 73 cm. It is housed in the Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza, Madrid.

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