Why the goldfinch is the crucifixion bird

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The goldfinch is an instantly recognisable bird that is common throughout Europe, North Africa and western Asia. But did you know that it also has the nickname of "the crucifixion bird"? This is because of its red face and its liking for thistle seeds. The legend is that a goldfinch landed on the head of Christ as he was on his way to Calvary wearing a crown of thorns. The bird is supposed to have plucked a thorn that was sticking into Christ's skin and its face was splashed with blood as a result. Goldfinches have therefore had a blood-red face and eaten thistles ever since - according to the myth! The legend became popular with artists down the centuries as a symbol of the crucifixion and of death - particularly the death of children. Raphael and Tiepolo both painted pictures entitled "Madonna of the Goldfinch" in which the bird appears to foretell the eventual fate of the infant Jesus. The English artist William Hogarth painted "The Graham Children" in 1742, which features three young children, a baby, and a goldfinch in a cage. However, at the time the painting was made the baby was already dead - the goldfinch represented its soul. Apart from that, the goldfinch is a very attractive bird, and it is no surprise that many artists have wanted to include it in their works to add a splash of colour.