Artwork

The Life of Jesus Christ: Christ Entering Jerusalem

The Life of Jesus Christ:  Christ Entering Jerusalem, by Georg Pencz, 1534
The Life of Jesus Christ:  Christ Entering Jerusalem, by Georg Pencz, 1534

The Life of Jesus Christ: Christ Entering Jerusalem is a print by the Renaissance artist Georg Pencz. It dates from 1534 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Christ Entering Jerusalem is a 1534 etching by Georg Pencz, a German Renaissance artist, depicting a pivotal moment in the New Testament. The work showcases Pencz's blend of Nuremberg training and Venetian influences.

Subject & Meaning

The etching illustrates Christ's triumphant entry into Jerusalem, with the central figure (Christ) standing and pointing upward, surrounded by an engaged crowd. Expressive gestures and postures convey devotion and assistance among the onlookers.

Technique & Style

Pencz employed sharp lines, nuanced shading, and chiaroscuro to achieve depth. The composition focuses on capturing the emotional expressions and dynamic gestures of the figures, with Christ's glowing halo emphasizing his prominence.

History & Provenance

Created around 1534 by Georg Pencz, the etching is now part of The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection. Pencz's style reflects his training under Albrecht Dürer in Nuremberg and subsequent exposure to Venetian art during his Italian travels.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Georg Pencz

Artist

Georg Pencz

Georg Pencz (c. 1500 – 11 October 1550) was a German engraver, painter and printmaker. Pencz was probably born in Westheim near Bad Windsheim/Franconia. He travelled to Nuremberg in 1523 and joined Albrecht Dürer’s…

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