Kruisiging 1596 - 1667

This is an engraving of the Crucifixion, made by an anonymous artist. The scene is dominated by three crosses, centrally positioned, with Christ's figure highlighted against a dark, swirling sky. The composition is complex, filled with numerous figures in the foreground that creates a dynamic interplay between the earth and the divine. The artist's use of line is particularly striking. Notice how the dense cross-hatching and fine lines create a sense of depth and texture, almost tangible. It also evokes a somber mood fitting for the subject matter. The linear structure emphasizes a semiotic system which reflects power dynamics and moral narratives during the artwork's time. The arrangement, dividing the earthly from the divine, destabilizes a unified meaning. Instead, it encourages viewers to negotiate multiple perspectives. It prompts us to consider the multifaceted nature of faith and suffering.