The Crucifixion

About this work

This painting shows a crucifixion scene on a small, aged piece of vellum. In the center, a pale figure with a crown of thorns is nailed to a cross, arms spread wide. To the left, a woman in a blue robe with a white veil stands with hands clasped. To the right, another figure in a blue robe and white cloak holds a red cloth. The background is flat with gold, green, and orange patches, and the edges are framed by decorative black patterns. The figures look stiff and slightly faded, which makes sense since it’s a tiny, old painting meant to be carried or displayed. The colors are bright but uneven, like it was painted quickly or has worn over time. If you like this style, look up Renaissance next to see how art changed in Europe.