Artwork

Dead Christ supported by Angels

Dead Christ supported by Angels, by Andrea Schiavone, oil, 1550
Dead Christ supported by Angels, by Andrea Schiavone, oil, 1550

Dead Christ supported by Angels is an oil painting by the Mannerist artist Andrea Schiavone. It dates from 1550 and is held in the collection of the Staatliche Kunstsammlungen Dresden. Created circa 1550, this oil painting presents the lifeless figure of Christ supported by two attendants.

About this work

Overview

Created circa 1550, this oil painting presents the lifeless figure of Christ supported by two attendants. The composition is dominated by a stark contrast between the luminous flesh of Christ and a deep, shadowy backdrop, emphasizing the physical wounds and the solemn atmosphere.

Subject & Meaning

Christ’s pale body is cradled by an angel with gentle features and a red garment, alongside an older, bearded man wearing a hat. The juxtaposition of the celestial and the mortal figures underscores themes of divine sacrifice and human mourning, inviting contemplation of grief and redemption.

Technique & Style

The work reflects the Mannerist tendencies adopted by the artist in Venice, combining elongated forms with expressive gestures. A pronounced chiaroscuro effect models the figures, while the handling of light gives the flesh an almost glowing quality against the dark interior setting.

History & Provenance

Attributed to Andrea Schiavone, born Andrea Meldolla in Dalmatia, the painting was produced during his active period in mid‑16th‑century Venice, where he absorbed influences from Titian. It is presently part of the Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister collection.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Andrea Schiavone

Artist

Andrea Schiavone

Andrea Meldolla (Croatian: Andrija Medulić), also known as Andrea Schiavone or Andrea lo Schiavone, literally "Andrew the Slav", (c.