This is my body – the incarnation of Christ in the paintings of Jerzy Nowosielski

Abstract

In Jerzy Nowosielski’s sacred art, depictions of Christ occupy a significant place. They can be considered the quintessence of the painter’s spirituality, which played a significant role in his work. This article discusses images in which the Saviour is depicted with his body exposed. From the artist’s extensive collection, the works selected are those whose themes relate to Jesus’ baptism in the Jordan, the Passion, death, and the Resurrection. An analysis of the iconographic and formal devices suggests interpretative approaches that can enrich the reception of Nowosielski’s works and explore the fascinating subject of the body of the Son of God. The article highlights the creativity of the Polish painter, who expressed this iconographic element in numerous ways, both traditional and more unusual and daring.