The Crucifixion
1604
From the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art
1604
From the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art
The Crucifixion is a 1604 by Gerrit Battem, a Baroque work, held at Cleveland Museum of Art.
This painting shows a chaotic battle scene under a dark, stormy sky. In the center, three figures are nailed to crosses, surrounded by soldiers on horseback and foot. Some soldiers hold flags or weapons, while others trample fallen bodies on the ground. The colors are mostly muted browns, grays, and blacks, with a few bright spots like the white flag. Notice how the figures on the crosses stand out sharply against the dim background. This effect makes them look dramatic and important in the scene. Look up chiaroscuro to learn how artists use light and shadow to create drama.
