Crucifixion with the Converted Centurion, 1538
Oil on panel, 24 1/4 x 16 5/8 in. (61.6 x 42.2 cm)
Gift of Hannah D. and Louis M. Rabinowitz
1959.15.23
Crucifixion pictures such as this one, with its emphasis on the converted centurion, had a special appeal for Protestants in the age of the Reformation since they illustrated clearly the doctrine of salvation by faith alone. Not only does the centurion make his affirmation, lettered on the panel, WARLICH DIESER MENSCH IST GOTTES SVN GEWEST ("Truly this man was the Son of God"), but the two thieves, repentant and unrepentant, symbolize starkly the contrast between salvation and damnation.
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