Crucifixion

     

Crucifixion (after Diego Velázquez), 2025
Oil and gold leaf on linen
92 x 61 cm | 36.2 x 24 in
 
The crucifixion of Jesus is described in great detail in the four gospels. It is the culmination of Jesus’ sacrifice and love for humanity. After being arrested and tried by the authorities in Jerusalem, Jesus suffered physical pain and died on the cross, abandoned by most of His followers.

Diego Velázquez painted the Christ Crucified (now in the Museo del Prado) in 1632. This large painting is a detailed and powerful depiction of the crucifixion, expressing pain and grief. Velázquez opted for a black background to represent the darkness that covered the land, likely influenced by Caravaggio’s style.
 
I followed Velázquez’s composition for this inspired copy but rather than using a plain background, I set the scene in its immediate environment. The tormented sky and desolate land are shown behind the cross, giving a sense of the end of time that is to come. I changed other details from the position of the nails to the gold leaf in the halo, based on research and inspiration.