The prevalent Christian representation of the cross is the depiction of a crucified dead man. There is often plenty of blood, always nails through flesh and a couple of weeping onlookers. No hint of eternal life or resurrection. It is a symbol well suited to the hellfire and brimstone negative message of Western Christianity.
Not much hope there.
However, in the Eastern tradition a slightly different perception of the same crucifixion scene evolved. This was taken up by western European artists in the Romanesque period. One example is that of Italian artists in Tuscany who painted crucifixion scenes on wood. These show a brightly coloured picture of Christ in glory, well robed and with a serene expression. Here, instead of morbid death, there is hope of a resurrection, a pointing towards a better future, a positive outlook on life.
For example the Pisan master painter created this visual sense of hope for those who wish to believe:
Tom
Not much hope there.
However, in the Eastern tradition a slightly different perception of the same crucifixion scene evolved. This was taken up by western European artists in the Romanesque period. One example is that of Italian artists in Tuscany who painted crucifixion scenes on wood. These show a brightly coloured picture of Christ in glory, well robed and with a serene expression. Here, instead of morbid death, there is hope of a resurrection, a pointing towards a better future, a positive outlook on life.
For example the Pisan master painter created this visual sense of hope for those who wish to believe:
Tom
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