Description
This significant oak panel is carved in high relief. It presents a scene of the crucifixion. In the foreground, we find Christ supported by a shroud. Nicodemus and Joseph of Arimathea get him off from the Cross, which is depicted directly facing forward. To the right, the Virgin Mary, faltering, is supported by Saint John. At the feet of Christ lies a fainting Mary Magdalene. On either side, two holy women hold in their hands jars of ointment. In the background, against the backdrop of Golgotha, two pine trees are carved in a distinctive manner.
This carved wooden group is interesting in terms of its vanishing lines, its well-balanced overall composition, and the diagonal of the shroud that counterbalances the body of Christ diagonally, imparting dynamism to the scene. The heavy drapery with deeply carved folds of the characters further animates this solemn and contemplative scene.