Ristiinnaulittu

This detailed woodcut titled "Ristiinnaulittu" by Lucas Cranach depicts the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, a subject commonly explored in Christian art to represent the suffering and sacrifice of Christ for humanity's sins.In the center of the composition, Jesus is shown on the cross with the sign "INRI" (Iesus Nazarenus Rex Iudaeorum, which translates to "Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews") affixed above his head. To his left, there is another crucified figure, typically identified as one of the two thieves mentioned in the New Testament narratives. This figure appears to twist in agony.The scene is crowded with a variety of figures, illustrating the mix of sorrow, indifference, and mockery that the Gospels attribute to the spectators at the crucifixion. Some figures are depicted in contemporary dress of Cranach's time, linking the biblical story to the artist's present day and making the scene more relatable to contemporary viewers. Notable are the expressions and gestures of the bystanders which range from grief to casual observation, reflecting a spectrum of human responses.Rich in detail and symbolic content, the artwork serves not only as a devotional image but also as a complex narrative scene that invites viewers to contemplate the profound spiritual significance of the event. Cranach’s skill in woodcut technique is evident in the intricate details of the figures' clothing and the expressive faces, which convey a strong sense of emotion and drama.