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.

"Pieta"
Artist: William-Adolphe Bouguereau
1876
Painting

This is a large-scale interpretation of the classic Pietà theme, showing the Virgin Mary mourning the body of Christ. At the center of the composition, consumed by her black veil, Mary cradles her child, entreating the viewer to pity with her gaze. Golden aureoles, resembling the gold-leaf details on Renaissance icons and altar-work, surround the heads of the two central figures, while a group of mourning angels encircles the scene, echoing the central compositional shapes.

This oil on canvas is in a private collection

"Golgotha (Crowd mocks Jesus)"
Artist: Mihály Munkácsy
1884
Painting

Christ represents the most tragic event of the Passion of Christ. The history of the dramatic event can be found in every gospel. Munkácsy worked according to Chapter 27 of the Gospel of Matthew. He records the minutes before Christ’s death on the cross. The drama that was occurring and its effect on those present served as a topic to be painted.

this oil on canvas measures 460 x 772 cm and is housed in Déri Museum, Debrecen

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