Salvador Dali - Christ of Saint John of the Cross

Salvador Dali (1904-1989) - Christ of St John of the Cross (1951)

Guyana 25c Stamp Issued Easter 1968

This is one of Dali's most popular and moving works - currently held in the Kelvingrove Gallery in Glasgow. 

The perspective is amazing, as Dali looks down on the crucified Christ, but we have a scene underneath, which is clearly painted from a front perspective.  Christ is not harmed by the nails in his hands, there is no blood and he does not wear a crown of thorns.    The painting was reportedly vandalised by someone in 1961, as they took offence at the perspective - looking down on Christ.

The scene at the base of the painting is from Port Lligat, a place that inspired Dali throughout his art career.  The people beside the boat are derived from a picture by Le Nain and from a drawing by Velazquez for The Surrender of Breda.