Crucifixion (Corpus Hypercubus)

"Crucifixion" painted in 1954 by Salvador Dalí, is an intriguing oil-on-canvas masterpiece that presents a unique, surrealist interpretation of the Crucifixion of Jesus. Instead of employing a traditional cross, Jesus is depicted on the net of a tesseract, a four-dimensional geometric figure. This painting signifies a pivotal transformation in Dalí's artistic approach during the 1940s and 1950s, transitioning from classic surrealism to what he termed "nuclear mysticism." This new direction was influenced by the advent of nuclear science and significant events like the Hiroshima bombing, leading Dalí to integrate Catholicism, mathematics, science, and Catalan culture into his work.

"Corpus Hypercubus" as the painting is alternately known, melds classical painting techniques with mathematical concepts and surrealism. In this reimagined Crucifixion scene, Christ hovers above a tesseract, symbolizing the synthesis between science and religion. Dalí's meticulous attention to detail is evident in the hyper-realistic depiction of Christ's knees and the subtle inclusion of hidden images of himself and his wife, Gala, adding layers of complexity to the piece.

The tesseract cross represents the transcendental nature of God, while Gala appears as Mary Magdalene, further intertwining religious themes with geometric forms. This intricate amalgamation of elements underscores the interconnectedness of faith, mathematics, and science. Critics have praised the painting for its masterful fusion of classical artistry and scientific inquiry.

"Crucifixion" has been exhibited in some of the world's foremost museums, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, the Centre Georges Pompidou in Paris, and the Salvador Dalí Museum in St. Petersburg, Florida. Its impact reaches beyond the realm of visual art, being referenced in novels by authors such as Ayn Rand, J. G. Ballard, and Robert J. Sawyer, solidifying its status as a significant and influential work of art.