Artwork

Christ Carrying the Cross

Christ Carrying the Cross, by Luis de Morales, oil, 1565
Christ Carrying the Cross, by Luis de Morales, oil, 1565

Christ Carrying the Cross is an oil painting by the Mannerist artist Luis de Morales. It dates from 1565 and is held in the collection of the J. Paul Getty Museum.

About this work

Overview

Christ Carrying the Cross is a 1565 oil painting by Luis de Morales, a Spanish artist known for his emotionally charged religious works.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts Jesus Christ from the chest up, carrying a large cross. His downward-tilted head and closed eyes convey a sense of suffering and introspection, emphasizing the spiritual intensity of the scene.

Technique & Style

The work exemplifies Mannerist characteristics, including elongated forms and dramatic tension, achieved through the use of chiaroscuro. The contrast between the dark background and the lighter tones of Jesus and the cross creates a sense of depth.

History & Provenance

The painting is now held in the collection of the J. Paul Getty Museum.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Luis de Morales

Artist

Luis de Morales

Luis de Morales (1509 – 9 May 1586) was a Spanish painter active during the Spanish Renaissance in the 16th century.

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