RIMINI PIETRO DA – Descent from the Cross, ca. 1330/40 Louvre (Paris)

The composition presents a scene of profound sorrow and solemnity. A central figure, presumably Christ, is being lowered from a large wooden cross that dominates the upper portion of the frame. The cross itself is rendered with stark simplicity, its form emphasized against the gilded background. A ladder leans precariously against it, providing access for those involved in the descent.
Several figures surround the lowering body. To the left, a woman draped in yellow and red robes gestures towards Christ with an expression of grief; a halo encircles her head, indicating her sanctity. Another figure, clad in red, stands further back, also exhibiting distress. On the right side, two men assist in the removal of Christ from the cross. One is actively lowering the body, while the other appears to be supporting it. A fourth man, positioned at the base of the cross, kneels and holds what seems to be a tool – perhaps used for securing or removing nails.
The artist’s use of color contributes significantly to the emotional impact. The palette is dominated by earthy tones – greens, yellows, reds – with touches of blue in the garments. These colors are applied with a flatness characteristic of early Italian painting, lacking nuanced shading and creating a sense of stylized representation rather than naturalism. The gold background serves not only as an aesthetic element but also to elevate the scene, suggesting its divine significance.
The figures’ poses are somewhat stiff and elongated, indicative of the artistic conventions prevalent during this period. Their faces display limited emotional range; expressions are conveyed through gestures and posture rather than detailed facial features. This stylistic choice contributes to a sense of formality and distance from the depicted event.
Subtly, there is an emphasis on the physicality of the scene. The weight of Christ’s body, the strain on the men lowering him, and the tools used in his removal all underscore the tangible reality of suffering and sacrifice. This focus contrasts with a more ethereal or symbolic representation that might have been favored in later periods. The overall effect is one of quiet contemplation, inviting viewers to reflect upon themes of loss, compassion, and faith.