Calvary 1840

John Martin painted this dramatic scene of ‘Calvary’ in the 19th century, using oil on canvas. It reflects an era of social and religious upheaval. Martin was fascinated by the power of spectacle. The painting depicts the crucifixion of Jesus, but it's as much about the drama of the event and the sheer scale of the landscape as it is about the religious narrative. Made in Britain, a nation wrestling with its identity amidst rapid industrialization and social change, the artist conveys a world that is both wondrous and terrifying. The sublime city looming in the background is the perfect analogy of the rapidly expanding cities in England at the time. To understand this work, we might explore the religious and social history of the period, looking into sources such as sermons, pamphlets, and newspaper reports to better understand how the public perceived such scenes from the Bible. By delving into these contexts, we can appreciate how art can challenge the status quo and critique the institutions of its time.