The Elevation of the Cross

"The Elevation of the Cross" refers to two remarkable paintings by the celebrated Flemish artist Peter Paul Rubens, crafted in 1610 and 1638. The first, a grand triptych, is displayed in the Cathedral of Our Lady in Antwerp, Belgium. The second, a more modestly sized version, is housed at the Art Gallery of Ontario in Canada.

The original triptych was commissioned by Cornelis van der Geest, a prosperous merchant, for the Church of St. Walburga. During Napoleon's rule, the painting was taken to Paris but was returned to Antwerp in 1815.

Rubens' painting vividly depicts the crucifixion of Jesus Christ in an expressive Baroque style. He masterfully conveys Christ's agony amid a tumultuous scene of onlookers and executioners. The outer panels of the triptych feature saints, showcasing influences from Italian Renaissance and Baroque masters such as Caravaggio and Michelangelo.

The themes in Rubens' work were shaped by the Council of Trent, which highlighted the triumphant aspect of Christ's sacrifice. Known for overseeing a workshop staffed with skilled assistants, Rubens adhered to a meticulous process: he began with a modello (a preliminary sketch), made adjustments based on the patron's feedback, and then completed the final painting with precision.

The smaller 1638 version of "The Elevation of the Cross" includes some variations from the original, such as added color accents and slight compositional adjustments. This smaller painting is believed to have been a personal gift to Cornelis van der Geest. Today, it proudly resides in the collection of the Art Gallery of Ontario.