Artwork
The Baptism of Christ
The Baptism of Christ is an oil painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Bartolomé Esteban Murillo. It dates from 1655 and is held in the collection of the Gemäldegalerie Berlin.
About this work
Overview
The Baptism of Christ is a 1655 oil painting by Spanish Baroque artist Bartolomé Esteban Murillo, depicting a pivotal biblical scene.
Subject & Meaning
The painting illustrates Jesus Christ's baptism by John the Baptist, with key elements including a dove (symbolizing the Holy Spirit) and a golden glow (indicating divine presence), conveying the spiritual significance of the event.
Technique & Style
Murillo employed chiaroscuro, using strong contrasts of light and dark to create dramatic depth, characteristic of the early Baroque Italian movement. The soft, cloudy sky and subtle halo around Christ's head further enhance the emotional and spiritual atmosphere.
History & Provenance
Created in 1655, the work is now part of the collection at the Gemäldegalerie Berlin.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
Bartolomé Esteban Murillo ( mure-IL-oh, m(y)uu-REE-oh, Spanish: ; late December 1617, baptised 1 January 1618 – 3 April 1682) was a Spanish Baroque painter.
