An artwork on Galleree from The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About the artwork
The Crucifixion with the Virgin and Saint JohnHendrick ter Brugghen
Dutch, The Hague? 1588–1629 Utrecht
ca. 1624–25
61 in. × 40 1/4 in. (154.9 × 102.2 cm)
Painting
Oil on canvas
European Paintings
Funds from various donors, 1956
In Hendrick ter Brugghen's "The Crucifixion with the Virgin and Saint John," we find ourselves immersed in a profound moment of sorrow and reflection. The stark contrast of light and shadow highlights the anguish of the Virgin Mary and the contemplative gaze of Saint John, both of whom stand in stark witness to the suffering of Christ.
The figure of Christ on the cross dominates the scene, depicted with a haunting realism. His body, emaciated and lifeless, conveys the weight of his sacrifice. The deep shadows create a somber atmosphere, forcing the viewer to confront the pain of this pivotal moment.
Mary, draped in a soft, flowing garment, is shown in a state of mourning, her face a portrait of deep sorrow as she gazes upward. In contrast, Saint John’s expression reflects a mix of grief and resolve, as if he is attempting to comprehend the enormity of this event.
The ground below, with a skull and a barren setting, serves as a reminder of mortality and the inevitability of death, adding an unsettling layer to the composition. Yet, despite this darkness, there's an undeniable beauty in the way light bathes the figures, suggesting the presence of hope amid despair.
Through this artwork, ter Brugghen invites us to pause and reflect on themes of loss, sacrifice, and the enduring power of love, placing the viewer in an intimate encounter with the divine.
About the artist
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