Introduction

Raphael, also known as Raffaello Sanzio da Urbino, was an Italian painter and architect of the High Renaissance. He is best known for his Madonnas and for his large figure compositions in the Vatican Palace in Rome. The Crucifixion, painted around 1502-1503, is one of Raphael's earliest works and a prime example of his mastery of the oil painting medium.

The Painting

The Crucifixion (View Reproduction) is an oil on poplar panel that measures 283.3 × 167.3 cm. The painting depicts the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, who hangs from the cross with a peaceful expression despite his suffering. Two angels catch his blood in golden chalices, reminiscent of those used during Mass at the altar below. The sun and moon are both visible in the sky, marking the eclipse that coincided with Christ’s death. Saint Jerome and Mary Magdalene are at the foot of the cross, gazing up at Christ’s body with reverence and pity. The Virgin Mary, dressed in purplish black to denote mourning, stands to the left of the Cross with John the Evangelist to the right. They both look towards the viewer and wring their hands in grief.

Commission and Provenance

The Crucifixion was commissioned by the wool merchant and banker Domenico Gavari for his burial chapel dedicated to Saint Jerome in the church of San Domenico in Città di Castello, Umbria. The Latin inscription on the stone frame, which is still in the church, translates as ‘Domenico di Tommaso Gavari had this work made 1503’.

Style and Influence

The Crucifixion shows Raphael's early influence by Perugino, but also his growing mastery of the oil painting medium. The composition is well balanced, with a clear focal point on Christ’s body. The use of color and light creates a sense of depth and volume, while the delicate slivers of cloud on which the angels balance add a touch of fantasy to the otherwise realistic scene.

Conclusion

The Crucifixion is an early masterpiece by Raphael that showcases his skill in oil painting and his ability to create a powerful emotional impact through composition, color, and light. The painting remains a testament to Raphael's genius and his contribution to the development of Renaissance art. Raphael (Raffaello Sanzio Da Urbino): Crucifixion (View Reproduction) Medium: Oil on poplar Style: Renaissance Year: 1502-1503 Museum: National Gallery, London