Artwork
Baptism of Christ

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
Artist
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.



















