Artwork

The Crucifixion of Christ

The Crucifixion of Christ, by Januarius Zick, oil, 1790
The Crucifixion of Christ, by Januarius Zick, oil, 1790

The Crucifixion of Christ is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Januarius Zick. It dates from 1790 and is held in the collection of the Gemäldegalerie Berlin.

About this work

Overview

The Crucifixion of Christ is a 1790 oil painting by Johann Rasso Januarius Zick, a German artist known for his work in both painting and architecture.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, surrounded by figures in various states of attention and devotion, including soldiers and kneeling onlookers. The scene is a representation of a pivotal moment in Christian iconography.

Technique & Style

Zick's use of chiaroscuro, a technique that exploits contrasts between light and dark, creates a sense of depth and draws attention to Christ's figure. The brushwork on the body is particularly detailed, giving it a three-dimensional appearance against the dark background.

History & Provenance

Created in 1790, The Crucifixion of Christ is now held in the Gemäldegalerie Berlin. Zick worked within the Rococo movement and was a significant figure in Late-Baroque art.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Januarius Zick

Artist

Januarius Zick

Johann Rasso Januarius Zick (6 February 1730 – 14 November 1797) was a German painter and architect. He is considered to be one of the main masters of the Late-Baroque.

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