Artwork

Study of the Figure and Head of Christ in "Christ on the Cross and Mary Magdalene"

Study of the Figure and Head of Christ in "Christ on the Cross and Mary Magdalene" is a graphite drawing by the Impressionist artist Mosè Bianchi. It dates from 1879 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

This drawing is a preparatory study by Mosè Bianchi for his work 'Christ on the Cross and Mary Magdalene', created around 1879. It is executed in a range of media on coarse gray paper.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a male figure with outstretched arms, likely representing Christ, alongside a separate study of a head. The figure's pose and the presence of the head study suggest the artist's focus on capturing the likeness and emotion of the subject.

Technique & Style

Bianchi employed a mix of graphite, brush and black wash, and white chalk to achieve a nuanced, textured representation. The use of chiaroscuro creates a dramatic effect, while the varying shades of gray and highlights add depth and emotion to the figure.