The Altarpiece of the Holy Cross 1604

Editor: We’re looking at Adam Elsheimer's "The Altarpiece of the Holy Cross," painted in 1604. The oil paint on panel depicts quite a crowded scene, figures seemingly ascending toward a cross. It feels almost dreamlike with a definite spiritual intensity. What do you see in this piece, especially with all these symbolic elements converging? Curator: For me, this work is steeped in the visual language of salvation. The cross, obviously, stands as a universal emblem of sacrifice and redemption. Notice how Elsheimer stages it: bathed in light, it pulls the eye upwards. Then look at the characters surrounding it – can you make out the common themes? Editor: Well, there’s a figure kneeling in what appears to be supplication and then others seeming to reach out in a pleading gesture? Curator: Exactly. Consider then the context – 17th-century Europe. Such images spoke directly to deeply held spiritual beliefs. Every element carries a weighted symbolism. The ascent toward the cross implies a movement towards grace, towards divine forgiveness. How does this relate to the additional panels which form the 'frame' Editor: They do add further levels. There’s a smaller painting on either side that has scenes from what looks like Christ’s path? Curator: Precisely! Each of those vignettes on the periphery feeds back into this central act of Holy sacrifice. And you start to read that emotional effect of spiritual transport of ascension towards faith. And do you agree that with its depiction of biblical scenes, does the Altarpiece create some feeling of memory in a community? Editor: I can see how that might be read! Almost like a continuous chain binding the generations and re-presenting these symbols. Looking at the detail of each figure, I am thinking of sacrifice in their own terms, reaching up toward something higher. Thank you. Curator: Indeed. That condensation of cultural and spiritual history into a single artwork. Quite compelling, isn't it?