Artwork

Christ Crucified

Christ Crucified, by Francisco de Zurbarán, oil, 1655
Christ Crucified, by Francisco de Zurbarán, oil, 1655

Christ Crucified is an oil painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Francisco de Zurbarán. It dates from 1655 and is held in the collection of the Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya.

About this work

Overview

Christ Crucified is an oil painting by Francisco de Zurbarán, created in 1655. It is a representation of Jesus Christ on the cross, held at the Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a crucified figure wearing a loincloth, with outstretched arms and a tilted head. A sign above bears an inscription. The somber mood evokes a sense of solemnity, focusing attention on the figure.

Technique & Style

Zurbarán employed chiaroscuro to create a strong contrast between light and dark, giving the figure a three-dimensional appearance. The dark background highlights the pale skin of the subject, emphasizing his muscular form.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Francisco de Zurbarán

Artist

Francisco de Zurbarán

Francisco de Zurbarán was a Spanish Baroque painter. He is known primarily for his religious paintings depicting monks, nuns, and martyrs, and for his still-lifes. Zurbarán gained the nickname "Spanish Caravaggio",…