The Passion: The Crucifixion
1521
From the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art
1521
From the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art
This black-and-white print shows a man nailed to a cross with his arms spread wide. His head is crowned with thorns, and the letters "INRI" sit above him on a small sign. Two men stand nearby: one on the left looks down, his hands clasped, while the other on the right holds a spear and leans in, as if checking the man’s side. The artist carved deep shadows into the lines, making the figures look almost three-dimensional. Notice how the man on the cross fills most of the space—his suffering is the focus. Look up chiaroscuro next to see how this dramatic lighting works.
