The Elevation of the Cross , Peter Paul Rubens
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The Elevation of the Cross, painted by Peter Paul Rubens, is a significant Baroque artwork depicting the crucifixion of Christ. It comprises a large triptych in Antwerp's Cathedral of Our Lady and a smaller version in the Art Gallery of Ontario. The painting reflects Rubens's mastery in combining intense Baroque style with biblical accuracy, influenced by ancient sculptures and Italian Renaissance artists.
Summary
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Artwork Description:
- The Elevation of the Cross consists of a large triptych and a smaller version painted by Peter Paul Rubens in 1610-1611 and 1638, respectively.
- The original is in the Cathedral of Our Lady, Antwerp, and the smaller version is in the Art Gallery of Ontario, Canada.
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Commission and History:
- Commissioned by the Church of St. Walburga in Antwerp, the triptych was funded by Cornelis van der Geest and later taken to Paris under Napoleon's rule.
- The paintings were returned to Antwerp in 1815 and placed in the Cathedral of Our Lady due to the destruction of the original church.
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Visual Analysis:
- The altarpiece showcases an early Baroque style, with a dark and intense setting depicting the crucifixion scene.
- The central panel emphasizes the tension between the men lifting the cross and the weight of Christ, portraying his suffering and willingness to sacrifice.
- Surrounding scenes include the preparation of thieves for execution and the response of women on the road to Christ's plea for forgiveness.
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Iconography and Symbolism:
- The artwork adheres to the Council of Trent's guidelines for biblical representation, emphasizing the victorious nature of Christ's death.
- Rubens contrasts Christ's plea for forgiveness with ancient depictions of divine vengeance.
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Influences:
- The work shows influences from ancient sculptures (Laocoon, Niobids, Farnese Bull) and Italian Renaissance/Baroque artists such as Caravaggio, Tintoretto, and Michelangelo.
- Rubens employs foreshortening and tenebrism, reflecting the influence of Caravaggio, and Christ's form is reminiscent of Michelangelo's nude figures.
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Artistic Process:
- Rubens led a workshop responsible for the creation, with pupils and assistants playing crucial roles.
- The creative process involved a modello (oil sketch) for approval, live models for figure positioning, and assistants executing the final painting.
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Smaller Version:
- The smaller oil on paper version, painted in 1638, is a modified reproduction of the triptych, now in the Art Gallery of Ontario.
- Differences include color accents, changes in the landscape, and the elimination of frames for a more cohesive scene.
This analysis reveals The Elevation of the Cross as a masterpiece blending artistic skill, religious symbolism, and historical context. Rubens's work reflects a synthesis of diverse influences, creating a powerful depiction of the crucifixion.
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