This sculpture, located at St. Thomas the Apostle Parish Church in Hanwell, London, is the work of artist Eric Gill and is part of the Art Deco movement. The piece is titled “Calvary,” and as a genre, it falls into the category of sculpture.
The artwork depicts a stylized representation of the crucifixion of Jesus, an iconic theme in Christian art. The central figure of Jesus is shown affixed to the cross; his arms are outstretched, and his head is slightly bowed in a gesture of suffering or death. The sculpture conveys a sense of serenity and resignation. The figures are depicted in a simplified form, with minimal detailing that leans towards the geometric abstraction characteristic of the Art Deco style.
Beneath the cross, on the left side of the sculpture, stands a figure representing the Virgin Mary, identifiable by the traditional iconography of a head covering and a sorrowful expression as she gazes up at Jesus. On the opposite side, there’s another figure, possibly representing St. John or another witness of the crucifixion, holding a book or a collection of scrolls, indicating a role of scholarship or documentation.
The overall composition of the sculpture is harmonious and balanced, with the figures placed symmetrically around the central cross. The text “INRI” (an acronym for “Iesus Nazarenus Rex Iudaeorum”, translating to “Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews”) and “AVE REX” (meaning “Hail, King”) are inscribed on the sculpture, framing the scene and providing context for the viewer. The artwork captures both the physical manifestation and the spiritual essence of the scene, using the clean, modern lines and forms associated with the Art Deco movement to interpret a timeless religious moment.
