#01307 ICON PAINTING

The composition presents a central figure suspended from a cross against a luminous gold background, characteristic of Byzantine iconography. The individual on the cross is depicted with dark skin and hair, clad in a simple white garment that clings to their form. Their posture conveys both suffering and resignation; the head bows slightly, and the arms are extended along the horizontal beam. A halo encircles the head, signifying divinity or sanctity.
Below the cross, three figures are arranged within an architectural niche defined by vertical lines of darker color. The figure on the left is draped in flowing robes of deep red and green, their face obscured as they appear to be weeping or lamenting. To the right stands another individual, clad in a pale blue garment with purple accents, whose posture suggests sorrowful contemplation. A third figure, partially visible behind the second, wears a pink robe and appears to be observing the scene.
Above the cross, three birds – likely doves – are positioned against the gold background, their wings outstretched as if in flight. These avian figures introduce an element of spiritual transcendence or hope amidst the depicted suffering. The gold ground itself is not uniform; it exhibits subtle variations in tone and texture, creating a sense of depth and luminosity that draws attention to the central figure.
The painting’s subtexts revolve around themes of sacrifice, mourning, and divine grace. The dark skin of the central figure could be interpreted as an attempt to universalize the suffering depicted, suggesting its relevance across cultures and ethnicities. The weeping figure evokes empathy and compassion, while the contemplative stance of the other individual suggests a deeper spiritual understanding of the event. The doves symbolize hope and resurrection, hinting at a future beyond the present moment of sorrow. Overall, the work conveys a profound sense of religious devotion and invites contemplation on themes of faith, loss, and redemption.