The Crucifixion (Primary Title)
Pieter Lastman, Dutch, 1583 - 1633 (Artist)
Lastman was a Roman Catholic in predominantly Protestant Holland, though he lived in the religiously diverse and tolerant capital of Amsterdam. Lastman became an influential painter of figurative scenes based on biblical themes and ancient history. This moving depiction of the Crucifixion was probably made for a Catholic patron’s private devotion. Though unofficially tolerated by the Protestants, mostly those in the sophisticated mercantile city of Amsterdam, prudent Catholics worshipped in either their own homes or in secret chapels.
Lastman mentored the young Rembrandt, teaching him how to bring forth the dramatic qualities of a story though expression, composition, and lighting—lessons that lasted Rembrandt his entire life. Rembrandt’s 1649 etching of the Catholic merchant Abraham Francen in his study (below) shows how a devotional painting such as Lastman’s Crucifixion was displayed in a private home—so modestly that it could even be shuttered or curtained off.
Some object records are not complete and do not reflect VMFA's full and current knowledge. VMFA makes routine updates as records are reviewed and enhanced.