Calvary (The Crucifixion of Christ) Ilya Repin (1844-1930)

Description of Ilya Repin’s Golgotha

Repin repeatedly addressed religious themes throughout his life. "Golgotha" is a picture literally suffered by the artist, the idea of which he nurtured for many years.

Reading the book of memories of Repin, you can understand how the author experienced this story, passed it through his heart. He felt and heard the cries and groans of those mourning for Christ.

Under the gloomy heavy sky - countless crowds of empathizing and curious. Interestingly, Repin depicted Christ on the cross in an ordinary Russian shirt. There is still debate to this day as to why the artist employed this device, but one version is supported by most art critics.

Critics believe that the artist conveyed through the elements of clothing dramatic characteristic of the Russian people. Since the stories of biblical themes were clearer and closer to ordinary people, the language of art also became more eloquent.

An interesting fact is that Repin was not very fond of the church, treated it rather coldly. As a sign of solidarity, when Leo Tolstoy was excommunicated from it, the artist also stopped visiting the house of God. So why are there so many religious scenes in Repin’s works? The fact is that, despite his personal attitude, he presents the church to the people as a sign to the Russian people.

"Golgotha" was presented at an art exhibition in Helsinki, where it became an honorary leader among other works. This painting was quite different from the usual Repin composition.

In addition, "Golgotha" was filled with symbols, little things such as a freshly dug grave, bloody footprints, and dogs scurrying about. This was uncharacteristic of the author’s work and, along with admiration, the painting caused sincere amazement of connoisseurs.

The exhibition in Helsinki was the last in the life of the author, and "Calvary" was one of the brightest paintings of the final creative years.