Artwork
Kreuzigung Christi
Kreuzigung Christi is an unspecified painting by the Northern Renaissance artist Master of the Schotten Altarpiece. It dates from 1475 and is held in the collection of the Kunsthistorisches Museum.
About this work
Overview
Created in 1475, the *Kreuzigung Christi* portrays the crucifixion of Jesus. Executed by the anonymous Master of the Schotten Altarpiece, a German painter active in Vienna during the late medieval period, the work belongs to the Northern Renaissance and is part of the Kunsthistorisches Museum’s collection.
Subject & Meaning
The central figure is Christ nailed to a cross, his pallid flesh marked by vivid red wounds. Six surrounding figures—women and men—react with grief, pointing, weeping, or kneeling, embodying the biblical narrative of sorrow and devotion.
Technique & Style
The composition relies on clear, bold outlines and flat areas of colour rather than gradual shading. Bright reds, blue‑green garments and touches of gold create a striking visual contrast, while the figures’ calm expressions lend a restrained emotional tone.
Context
The painting reflects the devotional art of late 15th‑century Central Europe, where religious scenes were rendered with an emphasis on narrative clarity. Its stylistic traits align with the Northern Renaissance’s focus on detailed surface treatment and precise linear forms.
History & Provenance
Originally produced for a Viennese setting, the work eventually entered the holdings of the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna, where it remains on display as part of the museum’s broader collection of Northern Renaissance paintings.
Artist & collection
Artist
Master of the Schotten Altarpiece
The Master of the Schotten Altarpiece (German: Meister des Wiener Schottenaltars) was a German painter, active in Vienna during the 14th and 15th centuries.
Crucifixión
Christ crucified between Mary and John the Evangelist and the saints Adolphus and Ambrosius
Crucifixion of Christ
Crucifixion
Altarpiece with The Passion of Christ
The Throne of Mercy with the Virgin, St. John, and Angels with the Arma Christi
Crucifixion
Christ on the cross with the Virgin, St John the Evangelist, Mary Magdalen, and Sts Cecilia and Barbara (left), and Sts Peter, Francis and Jerome (right)
The crucifixion
Lamentation of Christ