Griffoni Polyptych: The Crucifixion
by COSSA, Francesco del, Oil on panel, diameter 63 cm
The reconstruction of the polyptych, dismembered in the 18th century, is not unambiguous. It seems certain that the central panel was the painting of St Vincent Ferrer while on his sides were St Peter and St John the Baptist. This Crucifixion tondo was probably in the upper central position. The predella was executed by Ercole de’ Roberti.
On the Crucifixion tondo, in spite of heraldic simplicity, the statuesque figures convey an impression of grief with force and poignancy.
Suggested listening (streaming mp3, 3 minutes):
Guillaume Dufay: Hymn for Easter