Artwork

Christ Carrying the Cross

Christ Carrying the Cross, by Lucas van Leyden, ink, 1509
Christ Carrying the Cross, by Lucas van Leyden, ink, 1509

Christ Carrying the Cross is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Lucas van Leyden. It dates from 1509 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Christ Carrying the Cross is a 1509 engraving by Lucas van Leyden, a Dutch painter and printmaker. This work exemplifies his technical proficiency in engraving and his focus on religious themes.

Subject & Meaning

The engraving depicts a crowded scene of Christ bearing a cross on his shoulder, surrounded by onlookers with varied reactions. A castle on a hill and a kneeling woman with a child in the foreground add narrative depth.

Technique & Style

Van Leyden employed sharp lines and extensive cross-hatching to achieve deep shading and texture, creating a detailed, high-contrast black-and-white image.

History & Provenance

Created in 1509, this piece falls within a period of increased exploration of detailed narrative prints among Northern European artists. Provenance details are not specified.

Context

Part of a broader Northern European artistic trend in the early 16th century, the engraving reflects the era's interest in capturing intricate scenes through printmaking.

Legacy

While specific legacy details of *Christ Carrying the Cross* are not provided, it contributes to van Leyden's reputation as a skilled printmaker of his time.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Lucas van Leyden

Artist

Lucas van Leyden

Lucas van Leyden (1494 – 8 August 1533), was a Dutch painter and printmaker in engraving and woodcut. Lucas van Leyden was among the first Dutch exponents of genre painting and was a very accomplished engraver.

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