Christ on the Cross with Mary and John

Albrecht Altdorfer depicted the iconic scene of Christ on the Cross on several occasions but this version is notable for its similarity to his signature style of landscape topography.

Introduction

Christ on the Cross between Mary and St John is believed to have been completed in around 1512 and was produced on limewood, which is relatively rare as an artistic medium. The piece measures 102 cm by 116 cm, and today resides at the Staatliche Museen, Kassel. This piece remains one of the most powerful works produced by Altdorfer, perfectly capturing the drama of this Bible reference.

Description

You are immediately struck by the fewer number of figures seen here, just the three mentioned in the painting's title and no more. They stand prominently in the foreground whilst a charming landscape scene brightens an otherwise depressing composition across the background. His signature blue sky and sprawling hills are present.

There is also a tall tree placed on the left hand side to frame the content effectively and avoid elements drifting. The three figures cast dark shadows on the immediate foreground and this helps to further provide a contrast with the brightness that sits behind them. Elements of the blue colour in the sky continue down onto the hills, but most retain a natural brown with touches of green shrubbery.

The overall mood is solemn and powerful. There is a brutality to the marks and injuries on Christ's body, which other artists might leave out. There is great emotion in the other figures who look on in horror and sadness - the full impact of this Bible story is delivered to the viewer, and whilst the stunning backdrop provides some light relief, the overall narrative cannot be ignored.

A couple have been added in the lower part of the scene, whom you may not immediately notice. These are believed to be the original donors who would then give the work to a local Regensburg church, though there identities has never been discovered. To include donors within a scene was common during the Renaissance era, often using a small predella beneath the main work.

Style

Christ's depiction here is notable for its honesty, near brutality, in delivering a precise summary of events, rather than presenting an idealised version that might be easier to stomach. Some might be shocked by this approach, whilst others would be inspired to celebrate Christ's sacrifice, further strengthening their faith - it would have taken a brave and bold donor to direct and accept such as approach.

Talents Across Mediums

Altdorfer was known for putting most detail into his paintings and less into his etchings. He was essentially someone who specialised in that medium, though his drawings were also highly regarded. Colour was an important element of his success and painting was far better suited to that than the other mediums in which he was involved. He sometimes added elements of watercolour washes to his drawings to add a little colour but it would never be as bold as his preferred medium.

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