Artwork

The Passion of Christ

The Passion of Christ, by Hieronymus Wierix, 1619
The Passion of Christ, by Hieronymus Wierix, 1619

The Passion of Christ is a print by the Baroque artist Hieronymus Wierix. It dates from 1619 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Passion of Christ is an etching by Hieronymus Wierix, created in 1619. It is a print held at The Cleveland Museum of Art.

Subject & Meaning

The image depicts a bearded figure in a long robe on rocky ground, with clasped hands and a pained expression. Two winged figures float above, one holding a cup. A smaller scene to the right shows a group around a table and a lone figure on the ground. The Latin text below suggests a moment of struggle and comfort.

Technique & Style

The etching is characterized by strong contrasts between light and dark, achieved through the use of deep shadows and fine lines. This chiaroscuro technique guides the viewer's eye through the composition.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Hieronymus Wierix

Artist

Hieronymus Wierix

Hieronymus Wierix (1553–1619) was a Flemish engraver, draughtsman and publisher. He is known for his reproductive engravings after the work of well-known local and foreign artists including Albrecht Dürer. Together with…

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