Who painted Descent from the Cross?

Descent from the Cross was painted by German 15th Century in 1490.

Where can I see Descent from the Cross?

Descent from the Cross is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Descent from the Cross?

Descent from the Cross is associated with Renaissance.

Artwork

Descent from the Cross

German 15th Century , 1490

Descent from the Cross is an ink print by the Renaissance artist German 15th Century. It dates from 1490 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

A hand-colored woodcut depicting a poignant moment, 'Descent from the Cross' presents a crowded, emotionally charged scene of three figures engaged in lowering a central, limp figure draped in red.

Subject & Meaning

The print illustrates a dramatic, intimate instant in the removal of a body from a cross, emphasizing the physical struggle and emotional tension among the participants, clad in contrasting attire (blue, red hat, and red).

Technique & Style

Executed through woodcut, the image features sharp lines, rough blocky shapes, and hand coloring, which collectively convey a sense of urgency and rawness, distinguishing it from painted works.

Context

Typical of religious themes in woodcuts of its time, 'Descent from the Cross' leverages the medium's expressive capabilities to narrate a biblical event with visceral immediacy.

Legacy

While specific impact details are not provided, the piece exemplifies the woodcut's role in disseminating religious imagery with emotional depth during its era.