The Crucifixion: 'Behold Thy Mother'

William Blake (1757 - 1827)

Tate Collection

circa 1805

This painting forms part of a distinct group of works by Blake, identical in size and format, all concerned with the Crucifixion and Resurrection theme. It is dominated by the crucified Christ on the Cross. The mourners at the foot all hide their faces except Virgin Mary and St John who both gaze up at Christ as He speaks. The composition is near-symmetrical and largely monochromatic. Dark clouds tinged with red form the background. They were painted for Thomas Butts (1757-1845), a minor civil servant, who was one of Blake's most loyal patrons.

• Medium: pen & ink & watercolour on paper
• Dimensions: 41.3 x 30cm
• ArtFunded in: 1949
• Bequeathed by Executors of W. Graham Robertson through The Art Fund

Provenance

From the collection of Graham Robertson.

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