The Crucifixion with the Converted Centurion

1538

Oil on panel

unframed: 61.6 x 42.2 cm (24 1/4 x 16 5/8 in.) framed: 71.4 x 52.7 cm (28 1/8 x 20 3/4 in.)

Gift of Hannah D. and Louis M. Rabinowitz

1959.15.23

Created in the orbit of the Protestant reformer Martin Luther, this painting represents an episode from the Bible: as Christ utters His final words (“Father, into Thy hands I commend my spirit”), a Roman centurion experiences a religious conversion, recognizing that “Truly this man was the Son of God.” Both phrases are inscribed here in German, rather than in the traditional Latin. The date of the painting and the winged serpent, Cranach’s characteristic signature, are visible in the lower right. The coat of arms, however, has not been positively identified.

Culture:

German

Period:

16th century

Classification:

Paintings

Status:

On view

Bibliography:

Susan B. Matheson, Art for Yale: A History of the Yale University Art Gallery (New Haven, Conn.: Yale University Art Gallery, 2001), 134, 136, 156, fig. 133.

Note: This electronic record was created from historic documentation that does not necessarily reflect the Yale University Art Gallery’s complete or current knowledge about the object. Review and updating of such records is ongoing.