An artwork on Galleree from The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About the artwork
The CrucifixionPietro Lorenzetti
Italian, active Siena 1320–44
1340s
Overall 16 1/2 x 12 1/2 in. (41.9 x 31.8 cm); painted surface 14 1/8 x 10 1/8 in. (35.9 x 25.7 cm)
Painting
Tempera and gold leaf on wood
European Paintings
Purchase, Lila Acheson Wallace Gift and Gwynne Andrews Fund, 2002
In Pietro Lorenzetti's "The Crucifixion," we find a scene that invites deep contemplation. The artwork captures the moment of Christ's crucifixion, surrounded by a flurry of emotions—grief, pain, and solemnity.
The three crosses dominate the composition, with Christ elevated in the center, embodying both suffering and sacrifice. His expression surpasses mere agony; it hints at an inner peace amidst the turmoil, perhaps suggesting the larger purpose of his sacrifice.
Surrounding the central figures are a diverse group of onlookers, each rendered with distinct expressions. Some mourn silently, while others appear agitated, reflecting the mixed reactions to such a profound event. The vibrant colors of the figures contrast with the more muted gold background, enhancing the emotional gravity of the moment.
The intricate details of the armor and garments worn by the soldiers and the poignant depictions of Mary and the apostles draw the viewer into a historical and spiritual dialogue. Each element in the painting serves to heighten the intensity of the scene—shadows, gestures, and facial expressions all telling a story of love, loss, and redemption.
In this artwork, Lorenzetti skillfully intertwines beauty and sorrow, inviting us to ponder the significance of sacrifice and faith, echoing through time and space.
About the artist
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