Crucifixion Group

Hans Wydytz I

1490–1510 · Limewood · The Cloisters

The carving of this animated Crucifixion scene closely relates to that on known works by the Upper Rhenish sculptor Hans Wydytz. This scene was probably the central tableau of a small private altarpiece or devotional shrine. A stylistically related work representing the Mount of Olives, now in Berlin, originally may have served as a wing or side panel. Wydytz, who worked in Freiburg im Breisgau, was particularly accomplished in small-scale wood sculpture. The densely populated composition, the dramatic integration of the groups of figures, and the variety of facial type and expression contribute to the compelling theatricality of the scene.

Artist

Hans Wydytz I

Date

1490–1510

Medium

Limewood

Culture

German

Department

The Cloisters

Credit line

The Cloisters Collection, 1961