Free learning resources from arts, cultural and heritage organisations.

A painted wooden crucifix in a folk art style, featuring the crucified Jesus at the center with a golden halo and the inscription "INRI" above his head. Surrounding Jesus are symbolic elements including the sun, moon, stars, a ladder, and skull imagery. Below the crossbar, a depiction of the Virgin Mary or a saint is painted, while the base shows six anguished, nude figures with raised hands engulfed in stylised red and orange flames, symbolising purgatory or hell. The entire piece is painted on a black background with white star motifs and bordered in distressed wood tones.

This resource is licensed under Creative Commons BY-NC-SA

Mexican Wooden Cross

Made in about 1800. Christians believe that the crucifix symbolises the death and resurrection of Jesus, the son of God, who suffered and died for the sins of all people.

© Leeds Museums and Galleries.

Photography by Norman Taylor.