Crucifixion with a Donor (1480 – 1485) by Hieronymus Bosch

Crucifixion with a Donor - Hieronymus Bosch - 1480 - 1485

All Artwork Images

Artwork Information

TitleCrucifixion with a Donor
ArtistHieronymus Bosch
Date1480 - 1485
Mediumoil
Dimensions74.7 x 61 cm
Art MovementNorthern Renaissance
Current LocationRoyal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium, Brussels, Belgium

About Crucifixion with a Donor

“Crucifixion with a Donor” is an oil painting created by Hieronymus Bosch between 1480 and 1485. A piece belonging to the Northern Renaissance, the work measures 74.7 by 61 cm and is currently held at the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium, located in Brussels. Charged with religious significance, this painting exemplifies Bosch’s detailed and symbolic style.

The artwork depicts the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, who is centered on the canvas, suspended from a cross against a pale blue sky. He is flanked on the left by the Virgin Mary, dressed in a dark robe, and Saint John the Evangelist in a vivid red garment, both expressing grief. To the right of the cross is an older, balding man, likely a representation of Saint Jerome, based on traditional iconography, who is kneeling in a meditative or prayerful pose. In the foreground, a man who appears to be a donor—the individual who commissioned the artwork—is kneeling and portrayed much smaller in scale compared to the biblical figures, symbolizing his humility and lesser status in the presence of the holy scene. He is unmistakably distinguishable by his contemporary clothing, which contrasts with the timeless robes of the religious figures. The background offers a glimpse of a serene, yet somewhat surreal landscape that is characteristic of Bosch’s works, with verdant fields, distant architecture, and a couple of tiny figures that reward close scrutiny. The overall mood of the painting is solemn, capturing the gravity of the crucifixion narrative.

Other Artwork from Hieronymus Bosch

More Northern Renaissance Artwork

Scroll to Top