Rubens, Peter Paul – Descent from the Cross (2) Hermitage ~ part 10

The composition centers around a pivotal moment: the lowering of a body from a wooden structure. A group of figures surrounds this central action, their gestures and expressions conveying profound grief and exertion. The deceased figure is draped in white linen, his torso exposed, revealing wounds that suggest a violent demise. He appears limp, utterly devoid of vitality.
The artist has arranged the surrounding individuals to create a dynamic interplay of movement and emotion. Three men are actively involved in lowering the body; one grasps the shoulders, another supports the legs, while a third, older figure with flowing white hair, seems to guide their efforts. Their faces are etched with sorrow and strain. Below them, two women kneel, their postures conveying intense anguish. One covers her face with her hands, overcome by grief, while the other gazes upward, perhaps in supplication or despair.
A significant element of the scene is the large wooden ladder dominating the background. It serves not only as a structural device for lowering the body but also visually compartmentalizes the figures, creating distinct zones of action and emotion. The use of light and shadow is dramatic; a strong source illuminates the central group, highlighting their physical struggle and emotional turmoil, while leaving the surrounding areas in relative darkness. This contrast intensifies the focus on the immediate event and contributes to the overall sense of tragedy.
The color palette is dominated by earthy tones – ochres, browns, and deep reds – which reinforce the somber mood. The white linen against the darker skin tones creates a stark visual contrast, emphasizing the vulnerability and fragility of the deceased.
Beyond the literal depiction of an event, the painting evokes themes of sacrifice, loss, and compassion. The physical exertion of those lowering the body suggests a profound sense of duty and empathy. The women’s grief underscores the human cost of suffering. The overall effect is one of intense emotional realism, inviting contemplation on mortality and the complexities of faith.