Artwork

Christ Falling beneath the Cross

Christ Falling beneath the Cross, by Francesco Bassano the Younger, oil, 1580
Christ Falling beneath the Cross, by Francesco Bassano the Younger, oil, 1580

Christ Falling beneath the Cross is an oil painting by the Mannerist artist Francesco Bassano the Younger. It dates from 1580 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Ireland.

About this work

Overview

Christ Falling beneath the Cross is a painting executed in oil around 1580 by Francesco Bassano the Younger, a Venetian artist associated with the Mannerist style.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a pivotal moment in Christian iconography: Christ's fall while carrying the Cross. The scene is populated by figures in vibrant attire, assisting or surrounding the fallen figure, who is distinguished by his red robe and white loincloth.

Technique & Style

The work showcases the artist's use of chiaroscuro, with a stark contrast between the figures in the foreground and the darkened background, which features a distant landscape.

History & Provenance

Francesco Bassano the Younger was trained in his family's workshop in Bassano del Grappa before establishing a presence in Venice, where he produced this painting.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Francesco Bassano the Younger

Artist

Francesco Bassano the Younger

Francesco Bassano the Younger (Italian: Francesco Bassano il Giovane; 26 January 1549 – 4 July 1592), also called Francesco Giambattista da Ponte or Francesco da Ponte the Younger, was an Italian painter of the Renaissance period.