This is one of the earliest known depictions of the
Crucifixion in Christian art. It was made in Rome about AD 420‑30, at a time
when the Roman empire in Western Europe was fragmenting. The panel is one of
four, originally mounted on the sides of a small ivory casket, each carved with
a scene from Christ’s Passion. This panel is exhibited at the British Museum in
London.
In this image the Crucifixion is combined with another
scene of death: the suicide of the disciple Judas after he has betrayed Jesus.
The stiff, clothed body of Judas pulls down the branch of a tree, and a spilled
sack of coins lies at his feet. In contrast the exposed limbs of Christ still
appear vigorous, and he gazes at the viewer, triumphant in death. A plaque over
Christ’s head is inscribed REX IUD (King of the Jews). The Virgin Mary and John
the Baptist stand to the left of the cross, while on the right Longinus steps from
beneath the arm of the cross, just before he pierces Jesus’ side with a lance.
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