The artwork titled “Crucifixion,” attributed to “Orthodox Icons” and dated approximately between 1150 and 1200, is an iconic representation from the Middle Byzantine period, specifically within the Komnenian style. The piece falls within the genre of iconography and is part of the “Passion of Jesus” series. This historic piece is located at Saint Catherine’s Monastery on Mount Sinai, Egypt.
The artwork prominently features a central depiction of the crucified Jesus Christ, flanked by the Virgin Mary on His right and possibly Saint John on His left, illustrating a somber and poignant scene. Encircling the central image, there are various smaller medallion-like portraits of saints and holy figures, each with distinct halos, reinforcing the spiritual gravitas of the scene. The background is gold, enhancing the divine and otherworldly atmosphere typical of Byzantine iconography. The emotional expressions and stylized forms are characteristic of the period, conveying the theological and spiritual narrative effectively. The use of gold leaf, intricate detailing, and the hierarchical arrangement of figures underscore the reverence and sanctity attributed to the Passion of Jesus in Byzantine religious art.