Artwork

The Crucifixion

The Crucifixion, by Sodoma, unspecified
The Crucifixion, by Sodoma, unspecified

The Crucifixion is an unspecified painting by the Mannerist artist Sodoma. It is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Crucifixion is a 1550 religious painting by Sodoma, now in the collection of The Cleveland Museum of Art.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts the crucified Christ, serene amidst suffering, with a crown of thorns. Four figures surround him: three mourning women (one veiled, one clinging to the cross, one bowed) and a praying figure in red to the right.

Technique & Style

Sodoma employed chiaroscuro, juxtaposing strong light and shadow. The work features smooth facial renderings and a muted yet warm color palette, notably in the vibrant reds and blues of the attire.

History & Provenance

Created in 1550, the painting's history prior to its current ownership by The Cleveland Museum of Art is not detailed here.

Context

The scene is set against a subtle backdrop of a small town, a tree, and a soft blue sky, contextualizing the crucifixion within a broader, serene landscape.

Legacy

While specific influences or impacted works are not noted, the piece exemplifies Sodoma's contribution to religious art of the period, with chiaroscuro enhancing the emotional depth of the scene.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Sodoma

Artist

Sodoma

Il Sodoma was the name given to the Italian Renaissance painter Giovanni Antonio Bazzi.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.