The Crucifixion

About this work

This engraving shows a man nailed to a cross, his body twisted in pain. Around him, three other figures stand: one woman with her hands pressed together, a young man looking up with folded hands, and a soldier in armor holding a spear. The ground is dark, with a skull at the bottom left. The artist carved deep lines to show muscle and cloth, making shadows and light stand out sharply. This was a common trick in prints of the time. Try looking up chiaroscuro to see how this technique works in other art.