Artwork

Christ Holding a Chalice and Cross (recto); Resurrected Christ and Lamb of God (verso)

Christ Holding a Chalice and Cross (recto); Resurrected Christ and Lamb of God (verso) is a drawing by the Baroque artist Alonso Cano. It dates from 1666 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

This double-sided drawing by Alonso Cano features two distinct depictions of Christ. The recto shows Christ holding a cross and a chalice, while the verso presents the Resurrected Christ accompanied by a lamb, with Saint John the Baptist gesturing in identification.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing conveys key Catholic themes through symbolic elements: the cross represents Christ's resurrection, the chalice symbolizes his sacrifice and blood, and the lamb denotes Christ as the sacrifice for salvation. Saint John the Baptist's gesture reinforces this identification.

Technique & Style

The work showcases Cano's use of chiaroscuro, employing strong contrasts of light and shadow to imbue the figures with a sense of vitality. The overall composition suggests a preparatory study, likely for an altarpiece, characterized by quick, planning sketches.

History & Provenance

Created by Alonso Cano, a prominent artist in Baroque Spain, this drawing was produced primarily for the Catholic Church. While no corresponding altarpiece is known, the composition aligns with the functional and symbolic requirements of such a work.

Context

This drawing reflects the artistic and religious climate of 17th-century Spain, where visual arts played a crucial role in teaching and reinforcing Catholic doctrine through clear, interpretable symbols.