The first piece that represents this theme is Crucifixion by Diego Velazquez. Velazquez was a Spanish painter who was the most prominent artist of the court of King Phillip IV. Most of his work was made for the Spanish royal family, powerful European figures, and even commoners (“Diego Velazquez”). This piece, also known as Christ Crucified, exemplifies Velazquez’s technique to draw a nude Christ in a dignified, respectful fashion. This is a technique that he picked up on during his time spent in Rome (“Diego Velazquez”). Originally, this paining was believed to be a commission for the San Placido Convent, and was finally completed in 1632. (“Diego Velazquez”).
Looking at just the techniques of this piece, Velazquez has several diverse artistic influences. The Classical influence is evident through characteristics such as the tranquility and idealistic features of Christ’s body. Also, influence from the Renaissance is seen through the use of Chiaroscuro (“Christ Crucified”). Both of these features help Velazquez in depicting Christ as a hero. While the techniques mentioned above make him stand out as an ideal being, there is much more to this oil on canvas. This crucified Christ is in fact the savior of all human beings, and the hero of all Christians. Christ represents what it is to be a genuine hero in that he sacrificed his entire life as a messenger to God. He dedicated his entire life to his people, and in the end sacrificed himself so that his people could reach salvation. From just looking at this piece, it is evident that this was no easy task. Through his weak posture and expression of hopelessness, this physically weakened Christ is showing the fatal signs of exhaustion and excruciating pain. Nevertheless, he does not regret his situation nor pities himself for he knows that his actions are leading to the benefit of his people. In this painting, is shown as the quintessence of a hero, and his actions throughout his life support this depiction.
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