The Crucifixion 1435 - 1445

Fra Angelico painted this “Crucifixion” using tempera and gold on panel, sometime in the first half of the 15th century. Commissioned during a period of religious fervor, the painting invites us to reflect on themes of salvation, sacrifice, and divine suffering. Consider the identities and roles of the figures assembled at the foot of the cross. Their presence speaks to the communal aspect of mourning and the diverse ways in which faith is expressed. How do their gestures and expressions convey grief, devotion, and acceptance? The use of gold leaf is not merely decorative; it represents the divine light and the heavenly realm, framing the earthly tragedy with a sense of eternal significance. Fra Angelico’s composition balances the stark reality of Christ’s suffering with the promise of redemption. The painting serves as a reminder of the power of faith and the enduring human capacity for empathy and spiritual contemplation.