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: Rogier van der Weyden
1430-35
Painting

Considered to be Van der Weyden's masterpiece, Descent from the Cross depicts the crucified Christ being lowered from the cross by Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus. Packed into the shallow composition are several other figures, including Mary Cleophas, John the Evangelist, Mary Salome, the Virgin Mary, and Mary Magdalene.

This painting is oil on oak panel and is in Museo del Prado, Madrid, Spain.

"The Lamb of God"
Artist: Jan van Eyck
1432
Painting

The most well-known work of the painter brothers Hubrecht (Hubert) and Jan van Eyck is undoubtedly the altar piece in the Vyd Chapel in St. Bavo's Cathedral in Ghent. The official name is The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb, after the lower middle panel, where a lamb is worshiped by groups of angels, martyrs, prophets and apostles. The work in 1432 was one of the first painted altar pieces in North and West Europe - until then these works would be wood-cuts.

The Lamb of God is housed at Saint Bavo Cathedral in Ghent, Belgium, it has been damaged during various conflicts, and even had a panel stolen for ransom (it is still missing). The work consists of twelve oil painted oak panels.

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