Santa Maria Novella Crucifix by Giotto

The wooden crucifix measures 578 by 406 centimeters and displays Christ's figure with natural body proportions, blood flowing from wounds, and detailed musculature.

Created around 1290, this tempera painting marked a transition from Byzantine art to early Renaissance style through its realistic representation of human anatomy.

The crucifix incorporates inscriptions in Latin, Greek, and Hebrew at the top, while side panels show Mary and Saint John gazing at Christ.

The crucifix hangs in the center of the nave, allowing visitors to observe the detailed craftsmanship following a restoration completed in 2001.

Giotto depicted Christ's body in a vertical position with realistic weight distribution, departing from earlier representations that showed figures arched to the left.

Location: Florence

Inception: 1290

Creator: Giotto

Height: 578 cm

Width: 406 cm

Made from material: tempera, wood

GPS coordinates: 43.77490,11.24940

Latest update: May 27, 2025 06:55