Christus am Kreuz
Peter Paul Rubens (1577-1640)

Christus am Kreuz,

um 1615/16
Material / Technology / Carrier
Holz
Dimensions of the object
145,2 x 91,8 cm
Displayed
AP OG Saal IX
Department
Flämische Malerei
Genre
Malerei
Inventory number
339
Acquisition
1806 aus der Galerie Düsseldorf
Stock
Bayerische Staatsgemäldesammlungen - Alte Pinakothek München
Citation
Peter Paul Rubens, Christus am Kreuz, um 1615/16, Bayerische Staatsgemäldesammlungen - Alte Pinakothek München, URL: https://www.sammlung.pinakothek.de/en/artwork/k2xnEjb4Pd (Last updated on 17.10.2023)
The skies darkened during the crucifixion according to the Gospels. Rubens picked up on this dramatic mood and used the dark background to accentuate Christ’s body. In a departure from iconic tradition, however, Christ is not depicted with his arms stretched out far apart. The lifeless body has lost its tension and hangs heavily. Rubens could have been inspired to paint this realistic rendering by the increasing interest at that time in humanist circles in the crucifixion practices of Antiquity.

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