Artwork

Baptism of Christ

Baptism of Christ, by Maarten van Heemskerck, paint, 1532
Baptism of Christ, by Maarten van Heemskerck, paint, 1532

Baptism of Christ is a paint painting by the Mannerist artist Maarten van Heemskerck. It dates from 1532 and is held in the collection of the Gemäldegalerie Berlin.

About this work

Overview

The Baptism of Christ is a 1532 painting by Maarten van Heemskerck, a Dutch artist trained in the Italianate style. The work is characteristic of the Mannerist movement.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts the biblical scene of Jesus' baptism by John the Baptist, set against a backdrop of trees, hills, and onlookers. Jesus stands in a river as John pours water over his head.

Technique & Style

The painting features detailed, realistic depictions of figures and landscape, with chiaroscuro used to create a sense of volume and depth through strong contrasts between light and dark.

History & Provenance

The painting is now held in the Gemäldegalerie Berlin. It was created after Heemskerck's four-year stay in Italy, where he absorbed various artistic influences.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Maarten van Heemskerck

Artist

Maarten van Heemskerck

Maarten van Heemskerck (born Maerten Jacobsz van Veen; 1 June 1498 – 1 October 1574), also known as Marten Jacobsz Heemskerk van Veen, was a Dutch portrait and religious painter, who spent most of his career in Haarlem.

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