Artwork

Răstignirea lui Iisus

Răstignirea lui Iisus, by Gheorghe Jigmond din Bucium
Răstignirea lui Iisus, by Gheorghe Jigmond din Bucium

Răstignirea lui Iisus is a drawing by Gheorghe Jigmond din Bucium. It is held in the collection of the Alba Iulia Unification National Museum. The work is a wooden panel drawing depicting the crucifixion of Jesus.

About this work

Overview

The background is filled with stylised foliage and floral motifs rendered in muted gold and brown tones, giving the piece a subdued yet distinct palette.

The work is a wooden panel drawing depicting the crucifixion of Jesus. Central to the composition is the figure of Christ on the cross, framed by a blue border. Surrounding the central scene are six small circular medallions, each containing a serene human face. The background is filled with stylised foliage and floral motifs rendered in muted gold and brown tones, giving the piece a subdued yet distinct palette.

Subject & Meaning

The central image presents the traditional Christian iconography of the crucifixion, with the inscription "INRI" positioned above the head of the crucified figure, identifying him as Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews. The six surrounding faces, rendered with calm expressions, may represent witnesses, saints, or the faithful, offering a contemplative counterpoint to the solemnity of the central event.

Technique & Style

Executed as a drawing on wood, the piece relies on line work and limited shading to define forms. The decorative background employs swirling patterns of leaves and flowers, a motif common in Eastern European religious art. The use of faded yet contrasting colours—gold, brown, and blue—creates visual depth while preserving the work’s historic character.

Context

The panel reflects a folk‑art tradition found in Romanian religious painting, where wooden panels were often used for portable devotional images. The stylistic approach aligns with the work of artists such as Gheorghe Jigmond din Bucium, known for similar compositional arrangements and ornamental detailing in ecclesiastical contexts.

Artist & collection

Artist

Gheorghe Jigmond din Bucium

This 18th-century Romanian monk lived in the Carpathian village of Bucium, where he drew constantly—sometimes on birch bark when paper ran low.