The Crucifixion with St. Mary Magdalen Luca Signorelli (c.1445-1523)

Here we observe a scene centered around a crucifixion. A man hangs from a wooden cross, his body marked with signs of suffering – pierce wounds visible on his hands and feet, and evidence of scourging across his torso. His head is bowed, the expression conveying both pain and resignation. Above him, a sign bearing an inscription in Latin is affixed to the cross.
To the left, a woman kneels at the foot of the structure, her posture suggesting profound grief and supplication. She extends her arm towards the figure on the cross, her gaze fixed upon him with intense emotion. Her attire – a vibrant red robe over a blue tunic – contrasts sharply with the somber tones dominating much of the composition.
A group of figures is positioned to the right, observing the event from a distance. Their expressions range from sorrow and contemplation to what appears to be detached curiosity. They are dressed in varied garments, suggesting different social standings or roles within the narrative. The landscape behind them unfolds into a distant city, rendered with a degree of detail that implies its significance as a backdrop to this pivotal moment.
At the base of the cross lies an object resembling a skull, a traditional symbol associated with mortality and sacrifice. This element reinforces the gravity of the scene and alludes to themes of redemption through suffering. The artist has employed a clear perspective, creating depth within the composition and drawing the viewers eye towards the central figure on the cross.
The palette is dominated by earthy tones – browns, ochres, and muted greens – which contribute to the overall atmosphere of solemnity. However, the use of brighter colors in the woman’s clothing serves to highlight her emotional response and draws attention to her role within this depiction of loss and faith. The composition suggests a narrative moment frozen in time, inviting contemplation on themes of sacrifice, grief, and divine intervention.