Bartolommeo Bulgarini – Crucifixion Part 5 Louvre

The composition presents a scene of profound sorrow and solemnity, centered around a central figure suspended from a wooden cross. The background is dominated by a gilded surface, creating a sense of otherworldly space and emphasizing the symbolic nature of the event depicted. A dark, rocky outcrop rises on the left side, providing depth to the setting and contrasting with the luminous gold behind the cross.
The crucified figure occupies the focal point, his body rendered with a delicate attention to anatomical detail despite the stylized quality characteristic of the period. He appears passive, accepting his fate with an expression that conveys both suffering and serenity. Around him are clustered numerous figures, each reacting to the event in their own way. To the left, a woman draped in blue and orange robes gestures dramatically towards the cross, her face etched with grief. Another figure, presumably Mary Magdalene, stands nearby, enveloped in yellow garments, her posture suggesting deep mourning.
On the right side of the composition, Roman soldiers are depicted on horseback, their presence signifying the authority enacting this execution. Their attire is rendered with a degree of precision, highlighting their status and power. A group of onlookers, dressed in varied colors – blues, reds, whites – further populate the scene, contributing to the sense of communal witnessing. The inclusion of these diverse figures suggests a broader societal impact of the event.
The artist employed a limited palette dominated by blues, yellows, oranges, and reds, which contribute to the emotional intensity of the work. The use of gold leaf not only creates a visual richness but also elevates the scene beyond the earthly realm, suggesting its spiritual significance. The figures are arranged in a hierarchical manner, with the crucified figure positioned at the apex of the composition, drawing the viewers eye immediately to him.
Subtly, there’s an interplay between individual grief and collective sorrow. While some figures express personal anguish, others seem to be observing with a more detached solemnity. The contrast between the vibrant colors of the clothing and the somber subject matter creates a tension that amplifies the emotional impact. The overall effect is one of profound pathos, inviting contemplation on themes of sacrifice, suffering, and faith.