The Crucifixion with Mary and Saint John the Evangelist 1450 - 1460

This is an oil-on-wood panel depicting the crucifixion, made by an anonymous artist. Images such as this one played a critical role in spreading the message of the church in the medieval period. Notice, for example, how the artist has rendered Christ's wounds: they are not just signs of physical suffering, but also of his spiritual sacrifice. The skull at the base of the cross, and the angels collecting Christ's blood are also visual aids to understanding the religious significance of the scene. This painting was probably made in Germany in the late fifteenth century. At this time religious institutions played a central role in social life. This work reflects the values of that time, and helped to encourage religious devotion. As art historians, we look at paintings like this to help us understand not only religious beliefs, but how they shaped the society in which the artwork was made.