Mrs. Keyfitz's Art Blog

Art Inspiration, Discussion & Appreciation




Isenheim Altarpiece by Matthias Grunewald (c. 1515) What we learned- This crucifixion scene is the central of 12 panels comprising the altarpiece (the 2nd altarpiece we’ve studied this semester!  Do you remember the first?). Before this painting, artists had not previously shown Jesus as suffering on the cross, but rather victoriously enduring.  Grunewald was the first to show a pained, emotive Christ. A lamb bearing a cross is featured at the center of the painting to symbolize Jesus as the Lamb of God. Discussion Questions: Compare and contrast Grunewald’s portrayal of the Crucifixion to that of Emil Nolde. What do we know about altarpieces now, having studied two this semester? Who are the figures in the painting?

Isenheim Altarpiece by Matthias Grunewald (c. 1515)

What we learned-

  • This crucifixion scene is the central of 12 panels comprising the altarpiece (the 2nd altarpiece we’ve studied this semester!  Do you remember the first?).
  • Before this painting, artists had not previously shown Jesus as suffering on the cross, but rather victoriously enduring.  Grunewald was the first to show a pained, emotive Christ.
  • A lamb bearing a cross is featured at the center of the painting to symbolize Jesus as the Lamb of God.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Compare and contrast Grunewald’s portrayal of the Crucifixion to that of Emil Nolde.
  2. What do we know about altarpieces now, having studied two this semester?
  3. Who are the figures in the painting?

Notes