Artwork

The dead Christ supported by two angels

The dead Christ supported by two angels, by Francesco Squarcione, paint, 1425
The dead Christ supported by two angels, by Francesco Squarcione, paint, 1425

The dead Christ supported by two angels is a paint painting by the Early Renaissance artist Francesco Squarcione. It dates from 1425 and is held in the collection of the Gemäldegalerie Berlin.

About this work

Overview

The dead Christ supported by two angels is a tempera painting created by Francesco Squarcione around 1425. It is one of the artist's few surviving signed works and is now held in the Gemäldegalerie Berlin.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts the dead Christ being supported by two angels, conveying a somber and contemplative mood. The scene is characterized by solemn expressions and a muted color palette, inviting reverence.

Technique & Style

Squarcione's use of chiaroscuro creates a sense of drama, drawing attention to the central figures. The dark background with subtle texture and depth adds to the overall effect, typical of early Renaissance painting.

History & Provenance

Francesco Squarcione was an Italian painter from Padua who ran a prominent painting school, training artists like Andrea Mantegna. His surviving output is limited, making this work a significant example of his style.

Artist & collection

Artist

Francesco Squarcione

Francesco Squarcione (c. 1395 – after May 1468) was an Italian artist from Padua. Squarcione is considered by some to be the head of the first independent school for painters. His pupils included Andrea Mantegna (with…

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Gemäldegalerie Berlin open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.