Untitled [Christ on the Cross]

Object number2017.124.1

Artist Virgil David Cantini (Italian, 1919 - 2009)

Date1938

MediumOil on canvas; Wood; Metal

Credit LineGift of Estate of Virgil Cantini

DescriptionFramed painting on canvas. Painting depicts crucified Jesus Christ at center with Adolf Hitler seated atop the cross, a brunette woman holds Jesus' legs. Background has the Statue of Liberty in the top left corner and a burning city skyline in the top right corner. Mid-ground has numerous uniformed military men, including Benito Mussolini and Hirohito who are saluting Hitler. Foreground has three nude bodies; the left and right figures appear dead while the central nude is seated hunched over and has a uniformed military man standing above ready to strike.DimensionsHeight x Width x Depth (Framed): 41.375 × 33.25 × 1.25 in. (105.1 × 84.5 × 3.2 cm)
SignedLower right corner painted signature "VIRGIL CANTINI".
Reverse of canvas has handwritten date and artist name in top left corner in ink "1938 / Virgil Cantini", possibly written by the artist's hand.
InscriptionsFront of frame at bottom has hand-etched text "1873 W" and "5-2-1354".

Back of frame along top edge near top right corner has handwritten text in black "484".
MarksBack of each stretcher bar is stamped with maker information "DEVOE / 28 inch"; some of the stamps are illegible.

Related person Jesus Christ

Related person Adolf Hitler

Related person Hirohito

Related institution Carnegie Mellon University

Subjects