Describe the characteristics of the Christ in Crucifix (Cimabue, Arezzo)'s Description.
The crucifix was painted in the Christus patiens ("Suffering Christ") style that emerged from the mid-13th century. It displays the dying Christ on the cross, his eyes closed, his head resting on his shoulder, as his body buckles to the left. The sway of his rigid body indicates contortions brought about by pain. He wears a red gilded loincloth to cover his modesty. The predominance of green hues emphasised the examination of near death and decay.
It is closely modeled on the crucifix by Giunta Pisano, now in the Basilica of San Domenico, Bologna. This is most especially seen in the contortions and body type of Christ, the drapery, the architecture of the cross beams, the patterned borders and the figures of Mary and John the Evangelist at either end of the vertical cross beams. However, Cimabue goes further, especially in its portrayal of Christ's agony invoked by the contortions of his body. This is evident in that his body leans far more towards the viewer's left, and that his loincloth obscures a greater part of the patterned border alongside the crossbeam.The plaque on the vertical bar above Christ's head bears the INRI inscription Iesus Nazarenus, Rex Iudaeorum ("Jesus the Nazarene, King of the Jews"). Above this again is a small panel showing Christ with his hand raised in blessing.
Christus patiens Giunta Pisano Cimabue San Domenico, Bologna INRI the cross Basilica of San Domenico Bologna Suffering Christ left Christ crucifix John the Evangelist