The artwork, titled “Crucifixion,” was created by Graham Sutherland in 1947. Part of the Expressionism art movement, this piece falls within the religious painting genre.
In this powerful representation, the figure of Jesus Christ is depicted with stark, angular forms against a dark green background. The central figure is stretched across a taupe cross, with a crown of thorns encircling his head. The extended arms show signs of profound suffering as blood descends from the wounds, emphasizing the agony of the crucifixion. The depiction is emotionally charged, characteristic of Expressionist style, aiming to evoke deep feelings and contemplation in the observer. The minimalist yet poignant use of color and form highlights the severity of the scene, making the viewer confront the raw intensity of the subject matter. The surrounding forms, perhaps symbolic elements, are rendered in a muted green, complementing the overall somber aesthetic of the artwork.
