Crucifixion

From the tip of the soldier’s spear to the toes of the onlookers’ shoes, every sharp edge in this painting points up the distressing mood at the Crucifixion. The Virgin collapses in grief in St. John’s arms, Mary Magdalene wails at the foot of the cross, and Christ’s emaciated body slumps as he passes away. By using agitating details to depict these wrenching emotions, the artist incites compassion for the suffering in this scene.

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