Crucifixion
Primarily refers to Jesus Christ, who suffered death on the cross to save humankind from sin. Golgotha, or “place of the skull,” is where the crucifixion occurred. The Isenheim Altarpiece asks people to look at the Christian story and take consolation for the suffering of Christ on their behalf. Jesus is often pictured with John, Blessed Virgin Mary, and Mary Magdalene. Over his head was placed writing that said, “This is Jesus, King of the Jews.” To his left and right were two criminals also crucified, one of whom asked “Jesus remember me when you enter into your kingdom.” Jesus cried out “Eli Eli Lama Sabachthani” or “my god, my god, why has though foresaken me.” When Jesus died the sky turned dark and the curtain in the temple was torn in two. (Kremer, 2023) Photo of painting by Maerten van Heemskerck from the Detroit Institute of Arts, Detroit, Michigan, 2025.