Artwork
Maica Domnului îndurerată (Răstignirea lui Iisus)
Maica Domnului îndurerată (Răstignirea lui Iisus) is a drawing by Partenie Poienaru. It is held in the collection of the Alba Iulia Orthodox Archdiocese. The work portrays a solemn religious tableau centered on a crucifixion.
About this work
Overview
The work portrays a solemn religious tableau centered on a crucifixion. A woman in a dark, gold‑trimmed robe stands to the left, her hands clasped before her chest and her gaze directed downward. At the composition’s core, a man hangs on a cross, his limbs outstretched and blood visible at his hands and feet. To the right, a figure in a red garment observes the scene.
Subject & Meaning
The central figure represents the crucified Christ, while the mourning woman is traditionally identified as the Virgin Mary, embodying grief and devotion. The additional red‑robed presence may signify a disciple or a saint, contributing to the narrative of sorrow and reverence surrounding the Passion.
Technique & Style
Rendered against a deep blue background that lightens in places, the painting employs contrasting colors to emphasize the central drama. Architectural elements, including a white church with a red roof, emerge subtly behind the figures, grounding the scene in a sacred setting while maintaining a focus on the emotional expressions.
History & Provenance
The piece is catalogued under the title “Maica Domnului îndurerată (Răstignirea lui Iisus).” No further details on its creation date, artist, or ownership history are provided in the source material.
Context
The composition follows a long tradition of crucifixion imagery in Eastern Christian art, where the Virgin’s sorrow is foregrounded. The use of dark robes with gold accents and the inclusion of a church silhouette align with iconographic conventions intended to evoke contemplation and piety.
Artist & collection
Artist
Porenaru painted religious scenes steeped in Orthodox tradition. Look for *Judecata de Apoi* in two versions: a 1895 oil and a 1892 pencil drawing, both showing the Last Judgment with dense, fiery skies and tiny human…
