Where can I see Christ Crucified between the Two Thieves (The Three Crosses)?

Christ Crucified between the Two Thieves (The Three Crosses) is held by Rosenwald Collection.

What movement is Christ Crucified between the Two Thieves (The Three Crosses)?

Christ Crucified between the Two Thieves (The Three Crosses) is associated with Baroque.

Can I buy a print of Christ Crucified between the Two Thieves (The Three Crosses)?

Museum-quality prints of Christ Crucified between the Two Thieves (The Three Crosses) are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Christ Crucified between the Two Thieves (The Three Crosses)

Rembrandt van Rijn , 1653

Christ Crucified between the Two Thieves (The Three Crosses) is an ink print by the Baroque artist Rembrandt van Rijn. It dates from 1653 and is held in the collection of the Rosenwald Collection. Rembrandt’s 1653 drypoint print presents the crucifixion scene with three wooden crosses.

Inscription: Inscribed:recto: none; verso: at lower left, in red ink, in later hand: A M (Lugt 144); at lower left, in brown ink, in later hand: 1813 W E (William Esdaile, Lugt 2617) D80 N 17 Imp- From a different plate.; at lower center, in graphite, in later hand: B. 78 Les Trois Croix

About this work

Overview

Rembrandt’s 1653 drypoint print presents the crucifixion scene with three wooden crosses. The central figure is Christ, flanked by the two thieves. Executed on laid paper, the work relies on the stark contrast of illuminated forms against deep shadows, emphasizing the solemnity of the moment.

Subject & Meaning

The composition focuses on the biblical narrative of the crucifixion, positioning Jesus as the focal point between the two condemned men. The arrangement underscores themes of sacrifice and redemption, inviting contemplation of the theological significance of Christ’s suffering.

Technique & Style

Created by incising lines directly into a copper plate with a sharp needle, the drypoint method yields rich, velvety blacks and fine burr lines. Rembrandt’s handling of light follows chiaroscuro principles, using strong illumination to model the figures and generate pronounced chiaroscuro effects across the paper surface.

History & Provenance

The print was produced in the later period of Rembrandt’s career, a time when he increasingly turned to printmaking. It has been documented in several collections of his graphic works and remains an example of his mature approach to religious subjects in the medium of drypoint.