An artwork on Galleree from The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About the artwork
The Crucifixion; The Last JudgmentJan van Eyck
Netherlandish, Maaseik ca. 1390–1441 Bruges
ca. 1436–38
Each 22 1/4 x 7 2/3 in. (56.5 x 19.7 cm)
Painting, diptych
Oil on canvas, transferred from wood
European Paintings
Fletcher Fund, 1933
This artwork, titled "The Crucifixion; The Last Judgment" by Jan van Eyck, presents a powerful duality. On the left panel, we witness the moment of Christ's crucifixion, surrounded by a crowd of mourners and soldiers. The emotional weight is palpable; figures express grief and anger, their gestures and expressions rich with human experience. The landscape behind them stretches into the distance, emphasizing the profound sense of loss.
In contrast, the right panel showcases "The Last Judgment." Here, Christ, depicted in a commanding position, oversees the souls of the deceased. The scene is vibrant with angels and figures rising towards heaven while others are cast down into hell. The color contrasts are striking: the lush purples and reds on the left evoke a somber mood, while the brightness of the right panel generates a sense of hope and finality.
Van Eyck’s meticulous attention to detail—from the clothing textures to the expressions on faces—invites viewers to ponder profound themes of sacrifice, redemption, and morality. Each figure tells a story, creating a tapestry of human emotion and spiritual reflection. This artwork encourages introspection, urging us to consider our own beliefs and actions in the face of judgment.
About the artist
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