Artwork
Christ on the Sea of Galilee
Christ on the Sea of Galilee is an oil painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Marco Ricci. It dates from 1710 and is held in the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst.
About this work
Overview
Marco Ricci's oil painting, Christ on the Sea of Galilee, created in 1710, captures a dramatic biblical narrative. The work depicts a turbulent maritime scene, focusing on a ship caught in a violent storm on the Sea of Galilee, a moment often associated with one of Christ's miracles. This painting is part of the collection at the Statens Museum for Kunst.
Subject & Meaning
Small figures struggle for survival amidst the churning waters and debris, emphasizing human vulnerability against nature's power.
The composition centers on a perilous moment at sea, illustrating a vessel overwhelmed by immense waves. Small figures struggle for survival amidst the churning waters and debris, emphasizing human vulnerability against nature's power. Although not explicitly detailed in the source, the title suggests the presence of Jesus Christ, likely alluding to the New Testament account of him calming the storm.
Technique & Style
Ricci employs a dynamic visual language to convey the storm's intensity. The canvas is dominated by dark, swirling clouds and a wildly agitated sea, where crashing waves are rendered with forceful brushstrokes. Strategic use of light illuminates select areas of the waves and figures, creating stark contrasts with deep shadows. This dramatic interplay enhances the sense of movement and impending disaster within the scene.
History & Provenance
Completed in 1710, Christ on the Sea of Galilee represents a significant work by the Venetian artist Marco Ricci. The painting is a notable example of his landscape and religious compositions from the early 18th century. Today, this oil painting is preserved within the permanent collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst, where it is accessible for public viewing and study.
Artist & collection
