Artwork

Christ in the Garden of Gethsemane

Christ in the Garden of Gethsemane, by Giovanni Battista Tiepolo, oil, 1753
Christ in the Garden of Gethsemane, by Giovanni Battista Tiepolo, oil, 1753

Christ in the Garden of Gethsemane is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Giovanni Battista Tiepolo. It dates from 1753 and is held in the collection of the Hamburger Kunsthalle.

About this work

Overview

Christ in the Garden of Gethsemane is an oil painting by Giovanni Battista Tiepolo, created in 1753. It is a representation of a pivotal biblical scene and is currently held at the Hamburger Kunsthalle.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts Jesus kneeling in prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane, accompanied by an angel holding a cup, symbolizing his impending crucifixion. The scene is set against a backdrop of trees, a city wall, and a dark, starry sky.

Technique & Style

Tiepolo's use of chiaroscuro, a technique that exploits strong contrasts between light and dark, creates a dramatic effect. The angel's presence is highlighted by a bright light, emphasizing the divine element in the scene.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Giovanni Battista Tiepolo

Artist

Giovanni Battista Tiepolo

Giovanni Battista Tiepolo, also known as Giambattista Tiepolo, was an Italian painter and printmaker from the Republic of Venice who painted in the Rococo style, considered an important member of the 18th-century Venetian school.

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