Moderno (Italian, 1467–1528), The Crucifixion, 16th century. Bronze, 11.6 x 8 cm. The Cleveland Museum of Art, Gift of Dr. and Mrs. Sherman E. Lee 1977.147.

Moderno's Crucifixion demonstrates his ability to create rhythmic and dramatic compositions on a small scale. The writhing of the crowded figures and tortuous thieves is counterbalanced by the strong, classical body of Christ on the towering vertical of the cross. As the emotional and structural apex of the relief, the serenity of Christ's passing recalls his divine promise of salvation. The Crucifixion was one of Moderno's most popular designs and, after his death, his son Giambattista continued to reissue and rework his father's compositions from the family workshop. These plaquettes were so widely appreciated and influential that there are several variations and generations of Moderno's originals, including ones made well into the 20th century. In fact, another version of the Crucifixion exists in the museum's collection (1969.259), likely a later cast after Moderno's design.