Image Details

Collection the Louvre/Photo by Erich Lessing/Art Resource, NY

Jesus carries the cross to Golgotha. Two different versions of the same event are depicted in the oil paintings by Italian Gothic artist Simone Martini (1284–1344), and French Symbolist Maurice Denis (1870–1943). The gospels of Mark and Luke provide equally varied versions of the event. In Mark’s gospel, and Simone Martini’s painting, Jesus is mocked by the crowds that line the street. His disciples are absent from the scene; the faithful women must watch the crucifixion from a distance (in the painting, they stand near the city gate). Jesus is emotionally distraught but says nothing.