The Cross with the Holy Women

Emile Bernard

1894

The Cross with the Holy Women by Emile Bernard, 1894

Emile Bernard, a close friend of Van Gogh and Gauguin, traded his bold Post-Impressionist colors for stark, medieval-inspired lines in this 1894 illustration. The scene depicts the Crucifixion with raw emotional intensity, featuring grieving women at the foot of the cross—likely Mary Magdalene embracing the base—while Roman soldiers stand guard nearby. An angel hovers above, catching drops of blood in a chalice, adding a mystical touch to the somber event. The French text at the bottom translates to 'My soul has been pierced by a sword,' referencing the prophecy of Simeon to Mary and deepening the sorrowful atmosphere of this striking print.

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