Tuesday, February 13, 2018

Crucifixus

What is crucifixion?
This is a very long article, but I believe it is important that EVERY ONE OF US understand the material therein. 
Please also remember that Lotti's composition comes from a time when human life was shorter, nastier, and more brutish than most of us today can conceive. The reality of torture, unjust condemnation, horrific physical punishments and execution methods was but a rulership or territorial / religious squabble away.

Paintings - Personally, I favor crucifixions painted by Spanish artists - but there are literally millions of paintings and sculptures to choose from. I suggest that you locate an image, enlarge it as much as possible (use the computer for this, not the cell phone, for best effect) - and then examine it closely and let its power permeate your understanding - WITH THE CHORAL RECORDING PLAYING AS YOU LOOK AT THE ARTWORK.

Of all the crucifixion paintings I have viewed, two stand out in my mind, both by the same artist. Of course, my context for viewing the paintings is heavily informed by the faith tradition I most recently identified with and practiced. Your mileage may vary.


Corpus Hypercubus, by Salvador Dali

Christ of Saint John of the Cross, also by Dali

This is one artist's conception of the aftermath of the crucifixion of Christ:

descent from the cross  - Rubens

Sculpture

Pieta – Michelangelo

 burial procession

“et sepultus est.”

"Crucifixus" - Antonio Lotti - Cambridge Singers


In musical solidarity,
Lee

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