GIOVANNI DI PAOLO DI GRAZIA A Triptych The Crucifixion with the Virgin St John and the Donor 33072 1765 часть 2 -- European art Европейская живопись

The triptych presents a central scene of crucifixion framed by two lateral panels, each depicting distinct groupings of figures within landscapes. The composition is structured around a hierarchical arrangement, with the central panel dominating in scale and visual importance.

Here we see the crucified figure positioned against a background of gold leaf, which serves to elevate Christ’s suffering and emphasize his divine nature. His body appears elongated and vulnerable, rendered with a degree of naturalism that contrasts with the stylized depiction of the surrounding figures. Below the cross, a skull rests on the ground, a traditional memento mori symbolizing mortality and sacrifice. Three figures are clustered at the foot of the cross: one draped in black, seemingly in mourning; another in orange robes, gesturing towards the scene with an expression of sorrow or contemplation; and a third figure kneeling in apparent grief.

The left panel portrays a group of onlookers gathered on a hillside overlooking the crucifixion site. A man in blue robes kneels in prayer, while others observe from varying distances. The landscape behind them is rendered with a simplified perspective, suggesting depth through layered planes of green foliage and distant hills.

On the right panel, figures carry Christ’s body down from the cross, accompanied by other mourners. A walled city appears in the background, possibly representing Jerusalem or another significant location within the narrative. The landscape here is more detailed than on the left panel, with indications of architectural elements and vegetation.

The Virgin Mary, holding the infant Jesus, occupies a niche at the very top of the central panel. Her presence reinforces themes of maternal sorrow and divine grace.

Subtleties in the figures’ gestures and expressions suggest a range of emotions – grief, piety, contemplation – and invite viewers to engage with the scene on an emotional level. The use of gold leaf not only highlights Christs divinity but also creates a sense of otherworldly splendor, separating the sacred event from the earthly realm. The donor, likely represented by one of the figures in the foreground, is included as a participant in this devotional scene, signifying his personal connection to the depicted events and demonstrating his piety through commissioning such a work.