Description
The painting Crucifixion by the artist Josse Lieferinxe is a masterpiece of late Gothic art dating from the 15th century. This work is an impressive example of the oil painting technique used at the time. The artist has used a fine and detailed brushwork technique to create a realistic and moving image of the crucifixion of Jesus.
The composition of the painting is very interesting. The artist has placed Jesus in the center of the image, surrounded by the two thieves who were also crucified next to him. The figure of Jesus is the largest and is represented in a very realistic and detailed way. The thieves are represented in a smaller and less detailed manner, suggesting their lesser importance in the scene.
The paint color is another notable aspect. The artist has used a very limited color palette, dominated by dark and earthy tones. This creates a gloomy and sad atmosphere that reflects the seriousness of the subject of the painting.
The history of the painting is also fascinating. It is believed to have been commissioned by the Order of the Trinity, a religious order that was founded in the 12th century to rescue Christians captured by Muslims in the Middle East. The painting was originally housed in the Order's chapel in the French city of Aix-en-Provence.
There are lesser known aspects of the painting that are also interesting. For example, there is a Latin inscription at the bottom of the painting that reads "Johannes de Castellione me fecit" ("Johannes de Castellione made me"). This is believed to refer to the frame carver who made the frame for the painting.
In summary, Josse Lieferinxe's Crucifixion painting is a masterpiece of late Gothic art that stands out for its technique, composition, color and the history that surrounds it. It is a moving work with great artistic and historical value.